Planning Manager

Job Description

Planning Manager – Data Centre Projects

Location: London (Hybrid – minimum 3 days on-site / office)

Salary: £125,000 – £135,000 + Travel Allowance + Pension + Benefits

*Hybrid working opportunity*

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Planning Manager to join a leading cost and project management consultancy supporting the delivery of large-scale Data Centre projects.

This is a senior, client-facing role where the successful candidate will provide strategic planning oversight across major programmes, working closely with clients, contractors, and consultants to ensure projects are delivered on programme.

The role requires a strong leader who can drive planning standards, challenge programmes, and provide expert guidance across complex, fast-paced project environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning function across multiple Data Centre projects from a consultancy perspective
• Provide independent programme oversight, review, and challenge contractor schedules
• Develop and implement planning strategies aligned with client objectives
• Advise clients on programme risks, delays, and mitigation strategies
• Review and analyse contractor programmes, progress, and sequencing
• Produce high-level reports and present programme updates to clients and senior stakeholders
• Support project teams in establishing realistic and achievable timelines
• Drive best practice in planning processes, controls, and reporting
• Lead planning workshops, progress meetings, and stakeholder engagements
• Mentor and support junior planners within the consultancy team

Requirements

• Proven experience in a Planning Manager or Senior Planner role within a consultancy or client-side environment
• Strong Data Centre project experience is essential
• Deep understanding of construction programmes, sequencing, and risk management
• Experience reviewing and challenging contractor programmes
• Proficiency in Primavera P6 or similar planning tools
• Strong stakeholder management and client-facing experience
• Excellent communication, reporting, and presentation skills
• Ability to operate at a strategic level while maintaining attention to detail
• Based in or able to commute to London, with minimum 3 days per week on-site / office

Package

• Salary circa £125,000 – £135,000 - DOE
• Travel allowance
• Pension
• Full benefits package available on application