Planning Manager

Position : Planning Manager

Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly experienced Planning Manager to oversee multiple MEP projects. This is not a standard scheduling role — the candidate must be able to take initiative, provide well-informed guidance, and develop both practical and strategic look-ahead plans. The role requires full ownership of project controls, including planning, scheduling, and overall program management, as well as complete oversight of the EOT process and related contractual matters.

The ideal candidate should also have a solid understanding of cost control and commercial aspects, enabling effective coordination with commercial and contracts teams. They will be expected to assess and communicate the impact on schedules, milestones, budgets, and cost-to-complete (CTC). Working closely with the Project Director, Project Manager, and wider project team, the candidate will play a key role in driving proactive decisions and ensuring project progress remains realistic and achievable.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all project planning and control activities, including scheduling, progress monitoring, risk management, and commercial/contractual coordination.
• Develop, implement, and own the master program and look-ahead plans, ensuring alignment with project milestones and critical paths.
• Review progress updates and reports from the team and present weekly progress updates to the Client, Engineer/Consultant, and project management team, providing clear insights on progress, delays, risks, and mitigation strategies.
• Provide independent, technical guidance to management on project progress, potential delays, and corrective actions.
• Perform critical path and scenario analysis to proactively identify risks and recommend solutions.
• Lead Extension of Time (EOT) claims, delay analysis, and contractual coordination with clients and subcontractors.
• Ensure integration of planning, procurement, construction, and commissioning activities into a cohesive execution plan.
• Implement robust Project Controls procedures to support decision-making and ensure reliable reporting.
• Mentor and develop the Planning & Controls team, fostering proactive control, accountability, and ownership.
• Challenge assumptions constructively, ensuring decisions are backed by data and realistic planning.
• Serve as contract administrator for specific project controls and planning-related activities.
• Maintain effective liaison with commercial and contracts teams, providing insight into potential impacts on schedules and milestones.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related discipline.
• Minimum 15–18+ years of experience in planning/project controls on MEP projects and high-rise bldg.
• Proven track record in project controls leadership, with strong knowledge of planning, scheduling, and contractual/commercial coordination.
• Experience with Primavera P6, MS Project, and Project Controls tools.
• Ability to stand independently, provide constructive challenge, and influence senior management decisions.
• Deep understanding of construction methodology, operational requirements, and sequencing.
• Excellent analytical, leadership, and communication skills, with ability to translate complex data into actionable decisions.
• Advantageous PMP certificate and other related certification.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person