Planning Engineer

We are seeking a highly analytical and experienced Planning & Commercial Manager to take strategic control of the planning and financial health of our major projects. The Role: Senior Planning & Commercial Manager You will be the central figure responsible for the strategic planning, budgeting, and financial monitoring of our ground engineering projects. Your expertise will ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standard of profitability and reporting accuracy. Key Responsibilities: • Project Planning & Scheduling: Develop, manage, and maintain detailed, resource-loaded project programmes using Primavera P6 and/or MS Project for major piling, diaphragm wall, and dewatering packages. • Budgeting & Cost Management: Prepare, manage, and monitor project budgets, forecasts, and cost plans. Implement robust cost control procedures to identify variances and mitigate financial risks. • Resource Planning: Strategically plan and allocate labour, plant, materials, and subcontractor resources in alignment with the project schedule and budget. • Cash Flow Management: Prepare detailed project cash flow forecasts (weekly, monthly, yearly) and manage the project's financial health to ensure positive cash flow. • Project Monitoring & Reporting: Establish and lead the project controls cycle. Provide accurate and timely reporting on progress, productivity, Earned Value Analysis (EVA), schedule performance, and cost status to senior management and clients. • Risk Analysis: Identify potential schedule and cost risks within the ground engineering sequence and develop mitigation strategies. • Change Management: Evaluate the impact of variations and change orders on the project programme and budget, preparing necessary claims for time and money. • Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of planners and project controllers. Essential Qualifications & Experience: • A bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related field. • A minimum of 10 years of experience in a planning, project controls, or commercial management role, specifically within civil engineering groundworks, piling, or heavy civil construction. • Demonstrable expertise in: o Advanced Scheduling: MS Project  o Budgeting & Cost Control: Proven experience developing budgets and managing project costs. o Resource & Cash Flow Planning: Direct experience in resource loading schedules and forecasting cash flows. o Reporting: Expert ability in generating comprehensive project performance reports. • In-depth understanding of ground engineering construction methodologies (piling, diaphragm walls, dewatering) is crucial to accurately plan and sequence activities. • Strong financial acumen and experience with cost management software. • Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.