Senior Project Manager

Role Overview

The Senior Project Manager is responsible for overseeing the delivery of Primary and Grid Substation projects within the SSEN Framework, specifically covering the M4 corridor. This role requires a deep technical understanding of substation build and refurbishment, alongside strong problem-solving skills to ensure that all electrical and civil works are delivered safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with project specifications and regulatory standards.

In this position, you will lead large-scale projects from initiation through to completion, managing project teams, coordinating activities, and ensuring the successful delivery of projects within scope, budget, and schedule. A key part of your role will involve collaborating with design teams, contractors, and stakeholders to mitigate risks and ensure the highest level of project quality. The Senior Project Manager will play a critical role in meeting project objectives and exceeding client expectations, while maintaining a strong focus on safety and operational efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.

Duties and Responsibilities

Project Planning and Execution:

• Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, schedule, budget, resources, and risk management strategies, in collaboration with stakeholders and project teams.

• Lead project execution, monitoring progress, managing changes, and addressing issues or conflicts to ensure project milestones are achieved and deliverables meet quality standards.

Stakeholder Management:

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, internal teams, subcontractors, and other stakeholders, fostering strong relationships and ensuring effective communication to align expectations and resolve issues.

• Conduct regular stakeholder meetings, status updates, and project reviews to provide transparency, address concerns, and maintain alignment with project objectives.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Provide leadership, guidance, and direction to project teams, including project managers, engineers, and support staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.

• Support the professional development of team members through coaching, training, and mentoring, promoting continuous learning and career growth opportunities.

Resource Management:

• Manage project resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to optimize utilization, minimize costs, and maximize efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.

• Coordinate with resource managers and functional leads to ensure adequate staffing levels and skill sets are available to meet project requirements.

Risk Management:

• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and issues, developing proactive risk mitigation plans and contingency strategies to minimize disruptions and ensure project success.

• Monitor project performance indicators and key metrics, proactively addressing deviations from plan and implementing corrective actions as necessary.

Quality Assurance and Control:

• Establish and enforce quality assurance processes and procedures to ensure project deliverables meet quality standards, client requirements, and industry best practices.

• Conduct regular quality inspections, audits, and reviews to assess compliance and identify opportunities for improvement.

Financial Management:

• Manage project budgets, forecasts, and financial performance, tracking expenses, revenue, and profitability throughout the project lifecycle.

• Ensure accurate and timely invoicing, cost tracking, and financial reporting, in compliance with company policies and client contracts.

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience as a Project Manager, preferably in managing large-scale construction, engineering, or infrastructure projects.
• Strong leadership and project management skills, with the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, drive performance, and deliver results in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels, both internally and externally.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to analyse complex problems, make data-driven decisions, and develop innovative solutions to achieve project objectives.
• Solid understanding of project management methodologies, tools, and best practices, with relevant certifications such as PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent.
• Proficiency in project management software and Microsoft Office applications, with experience in developing and maintaining project plans, schedules, and budgets.
• Degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field is desirable.
• Previous experience in client-facing roles and managing client relationships is advantageous.

Company Information:

OCU leads the way in end-to-end infrastructure engineering in the utilities, digital, and energy markets, specialising in safely and efficiently delivering complex client requirements. Our breadth of capabilities and depth of operational capacity, paired with our cutting-edge technology, ensure that we are not just part of the market; we are leading it.

Working directly with many of the country’s leading power, energy transition, water, telecoms and digital clients, we are looking for the very best talent to join our growing team.