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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