Planning Manager

THE TEAM JSM Group Services Ltd is a leading provider of integrated utility infrastructure solutions. Our combination of end-to-end technical expertise, decades of industry experience, and unlimited fresh thinking makes us a trusted partner for the implementation of next-generation connectivity in energy and communications.

Our focus is on building for tomorrow by delivering every day for customers right across the UK, Europe and beyond. JSM Group envisions a workplace where we are not only the leading force in the utility sector in the UK but also a beacon of exemplary workplace culture and social responsibility.

The Planning Manager sits within the Civils Division, acting as the senior planning authority and leading a team of planners to deliver consistent, high-quality programme management across both tender and construction activities.

SCOPE OF ROLE The Planning Manager is responsible for leading and determining the strategic objectives of the planning function within the Civils Division. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on Senior Planner responsibility on named contracts.

Planning & Programme Management

• Establish, develop, and regularly review common working practices across the planning function
• Act as custodian of the Planning Manual and associated toolbox guidance and forms, keeping these current
• Ensure logic-linked contract programmes are issued, agreed, and maintained throughout the project lifecycle
• Ensure progress is routinely marked up and reported in line with design and construction reporting procedures
• Fulfil the weekly reporting procedure to monitor site activities and flag risks or delays
• Assist in producing recovery programmes where required
• Ensure ‘as-built’ programmes are produced in accordance with procedures
• Maintain a functioning Primavera P6 central database at head office

Tender Planning

• Assimilate and interpret tender documentation to produce robust, credible tender programmes
• Contribute to bid-winning and commercial strategy during the tender phase
• Manage the development of programme structure and methodology for tender submissions
• Contribute to written tender submissions, ensuring planning content is clear, accurate, and compelling
• Support the communication and transfer of knowledge from tender to construction team post-award

Stakeholder & Approvals Management

• Develop and maintain effective working relationships at the appropriate client level
• Act as the point of escalation for planning-related issues on projects
• Gather, monitor, and communicate programme information in formats suited to the audience
• Produce clear, concise programme reports that support decision-making at project and division level
• Influence decision-making by presenting programme data and analysis in a compelling, accessible way

Line Management

• Lead and manage the planning team, including internal reporting, recruitment, and staff development
• Oversee training delivery and maintain a programme of continuous professional development
• Carry out audits and peer reviews of planning outputs to maintain quality and consistency
• Establish and maintain programme governance frameworks for both tender and construction programmes
• Promote the importance and value of the planning function in delivering successful projects

HOW YOU`LL SUCCEED

• Technical Expertise – Applies deep planning knowledge to develop robust, credible programmes
• Strategic Thinking – Sets direction and standards for the planning function, anticipating future challenges
• Problem Solving – Analyses complex programme challenges and identifies effective, risk-based solutions
• Collaboration – Works cross-functionally to align planning, commercial, and delivery priorities
• Stakeholder Engagement – Builds effective working relationships with clients and internal teams
• Continuous Improvement – Identifies opportunities to enhance planning approaches, tools, and processes
• Line Management & Team Development Creates a high-performance environment with clear accountability

What It Takes Qualifications & Experience

• Degree or equivalent experience in Civil Engineering, Construction Management or related discipline
• Significant experience in a senior planning role within civil engineering or infrastructure contracting
• Proficient in Primavera P6 and/or Microsoft Project
• Knowledge of Health, Safety, and Quality management within a construction environment
• Experience in a utilities, energy, or cable/ducting environment
• NEC3/4, JCT and FIDIC knowledge desirable, given the role supports surveyors on programme-related claims and EOT submissions

Personal Qualities

• Strong communicator and collaborator, building trust across teams and stakeholders
• Resilient and adaptable under pressure, maintaining focus in fast-paced or changing environments
• Proactive and solutions-driven, taking ownership to resolve challenges early
• Commercially aware, understanding the balance between cost, quality, and programme
• Decisive and accountable, confident in making informed decisions and owning outcomes
• Influential, able to challenge constructively and guide others towards effective solutions
• Team-focused, committed to supporting others, sharing knowledge, and building capability
• High standards mindset, driven to deliver consistently strong results

What We Offer You We truly value your work, time, and skills! In return, we will offer you a competitive salary and some additional benefits to support your professional growth, including:

• Participation in mentoring and coaching programmes
• 28 days of holiday (excluding bank holidays)
• 2 paid volunteering days a year
• Hybrid working pattern
• Continuous training and development, in both technical and business skills

*Equal Opportunity Statement

JSM Group Services Ltd. is an equal opportunities employer and does not discriminate on the grounds of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, disability or age. Our ethos is to respect and value people’s differences, and to help everyone achieve more at work as well as in their personal lives so that they feel proud of the part they play in our success. We believe that all decisions about people at work should be based on the individual’s abilities, skills, performance and behaviour and our business requirements. JSM Group operates a zero-tolerance policy to any form of discrimination, abuse or harassment.* At JSM Group, we are a leading specialist infrastructure engineering company. We design and install the complex power networks, digital infrastructure and specialist systems a future-focused worldwide marketplace needs. From High-Power grid connections to Critical Utilities. Data Centres to Renewable Energy, our full turnkey solution teams manage the full scope to help advise and deliver complex infrastructure projects at speed, on time and with reduced legislation, technical and commercial risks.