Senior Planning Manager

About us

United Utilities’ (UU) mission is to deliver high-quality water for a more prosperous, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society. We are proud to be ranked #4 in The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List. We promote a workplace culture where our people can grow, excel, and truly be themselves.

We uphold our ethics, values, and business model to fulfil our mission. By setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable, long-term value for our colleagues, customers, and communities. Whether you collaborate with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation.

We’ve got a lot to offer. You’ll be part of a thriving company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution. These include

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service, in addition to 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• A 10.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
• Flexible and hybrid working

Please note: At UU, we champion flexible ways of working. This position requires in-person attendance at Kendal / Carlisle (Cumbria) to promote the benefits of face-to-face collaboration alongside flexibility to support your work-life balance.

Office or site attendance is expected a minimum 3 days per a week.

The role

As a Senior Planning Manager, you will be responsible for producing and maintaining the Client Project schedule, ensuring integration with 3rd Party Interfaces and Design/Procurement Programme. The role includes oversight of development, and management of Client Project-Level programmes, integration and coordination of Contractor Work Packages, and reporting against measured baselines.

The size and complexity of our new 5-year Capital Investment Programme (AMP8) is 4 times bigger than previous programmes and United Utilities have a huge opportunity to transform the infrastructure of the North West.

At United Utilities, we are committed to supporting your professional and personal development. You will have access to a range of dynamic opportunities in a supportive and collaborative environment that encourages growth. By joining us, you will have the chance to make a meaningful difference to the North West of England while contributing to our ongoing transformation and sustainability efforts.

To be considered for this position you must have the right to work in the UK.

Key accountabilities

• Oversee production of Client Project-level and Contractor Work Package-level optimised schedules
• Evaluate the optimised programme/project schedule progress and performance and identify developing problem areas and proactively managing and supporting the implementation of solutions.
• Proactively manage and control the critical path and prioritise activities accordingly
• Assess impact of trends and change, ensuring agreed change to the baseline is implemented in a timely manner
• Establish a robust forecasting process and ensure regular reviews with all contributing parties that make up the overall WBS
• Review, develop and optimise construction methodology and site logistics.
• Lead on the schedule review of contractor claims or disputes.
• Review contractors' programmes and make comments as appropriate; ensure that they comply with strategic programmes in line with the WBS.

Skills & experience

To be successful with your application, you’ll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Experience in Programme Controls, Planning and Scheduling.
• Expertise of design and build techniques, methods and durations, with ability to plan and schedule detailed bottom-up construction programmes.
• Strong understanding of techniques for project planning and other facets of project controls
• Experience of Primavera and similar planning software
• Experience of integrated project planning.

It would also be great if you can demonstrate any of the following desirable criteria:

• Degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent professional experience.