Senior Planning Manager

The role

As a Senior Planner at United Utilities, you will oversee the production and maintenance of the Client Project schedule, ensuring seamless integration with 3rd Party Interfaces and the Design/Procurement Programme. Your role will involve supervising the development and management of Client Project-Level programmes, coordinating Contractor Work Packages, and providing regular reports on progress against established baselines.

The 5-year Capital Investment Programme (AMP8) presents a significant opportunity for United Utilities, with its size and complexity four times larger than previous initiatives. This programme stands to revolutionize the infrastructure of the North-West region, offering a substantial scope for transformation.

At United Utilities, we prioritize your professional and personal growth. We offer a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters development and provides diverse opportunities for advancement. By joining our team, you not only contribute to the ongoing transformation and sustainability efforts but also play a vital role in making a meaningful impact on the North-West of England.

Key accountabilities:

• Oversee production of Client Project-level and Contractor Work Package-level optimised schedules
• Evaluate the optimised programme/project schedule progress and performance and identify developing problem areas and proactively managing and supporting the implementation of solutions.
• Proactively manage and control the critical path and prioritise activities accordingly
• Assess impact of trends and change, ensuring agreed change to the baseline is implemented in a timely manner
• Establish a robust forecasting process and ensure regular reviews with all contributing parties that make up the overall WBS
• Review, develop and optimise construction methodology and site logistics.
• Lead on the schedule review of contractor claims or disputes.
• Review contractors' programmes and make comments as appropriate; ensure that they comply with strategic programmes in line with the WBS.
• Our successful candidate will be responsible for the mentoring and coaching of planners within the team

Skills & experience:

To be successful with your application, you’ll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Experience in Programme Controls, Planning and Scheduling.
• Expertise of design and build techniques, methods and durations, with ability to plan and schedule detailed bottom-up construction programmes.
• Strong understanding of techniques for project planning and other facets of project controls
• Experience of Primavera and similar planning software
• Experience of integrated project planning.

What we offer:

• 26 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after four years, plus 8 bank holidays
• Competitive pension with up to 14% employer contribution (21% combined) and life cover
• Performance‑related bonus
• Comprehensive company‑funded healthcare plan
• A strong commitment to flexible and hybrid working

About United Utilities:

United Utilities proudly serves the North West, delivering high‑quality water and wastewater services that support healthier communities, a stronger economy and a greener environment.

We’re ranked #11 in The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers, and we’re serious about inclusion, wellbeing and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. Our people are empowered to grow, innovate and make a meaningful difference — not just for our customers, but for the communities we serve.