Programme Planner

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Programme Planner with strong Microsoft Project expertise to support the delivery of a complex rolling stock programme alongside a wider portfolio of infrastructure and transformation projects.This role is central to ensuring robust planning, scheduling, and project controls are in place, enabling effective programme delivery through high-quality plans, stakeholder engagement, and data-driven decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

Planning & Scheduling

• Lead the planning and scheduling function across a complex programme and associated projects.
• Develop, manage, and maintain detailed programme schedules using Microsoft Project.
• Identify and manage dependencies, critical path activities, and programme risks.
• Ensure all activities are accurately reflected, assessed, and integrated within programme schedules.
• Produce clear and concise programme plans, reports, and scenario analyses for a range of stakeholders.

Programme Controls & Reporting

• Contribute to a robust and efficient Project Controls function.
• Monitor and update programme progress, highlighting variances and recommending corrective actions.
• Provide regular reporting, including dashboards and performance insights.
• Support continuous improvement of planning processes, tools, and standards.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Facilitate planning workshops and collaborative scheduling sessions.
• Communicate effectively with internal teams, senior leadership, and external stakeholders.
• Translate complex planning data into accessible insights for non-technical audiences.

Coordination & Delivery Support

• Align planning activities with overall programme and project management functions.
• Support cross-functional coordination to ensure efficient delivery.
• Apply commercial awareness to optimise planning decisions and value for money.

Governance & Best Practice

• Promote and implement PMO best practices and planning standards.
• Support adoption of new project management methodologies and tools.
• Ensure compliance with governance, health & safety, and organisational policies.

Key Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree, HND, or HNC in a relevant discipline (e.g. Engineering, Transport Planning, Project Management) or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 2+ years’ experience in a programme or project planning role.
• Demonstrable experience working on complex programmes or multiple projects.
• Proven track record of delivering effective planning and scheduling on large-scale initiatives.

Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Project (essential).
• Strong understanding of project and programme management methodologies.
• Experience with planning tools, scheduling techniques, and reporting frameworks.
• Knowledge of wider project controls disciplines (risk, change, quality, etc.).

Core Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to identify critical path and manage dependencies effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Proactive, results-driven, and resilient under pressure.

Additional Responsibilities

• Support onboarding and mentoring of new or junior team members where required.
• Contribute to organisational initiatives, continuous improvement, and strategic objectives.
• Promote inclusive and non-discriminatory working practices.

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