Project Controls Manager

The Role:

As Project Controls Manager, you'll support the delivery of Project and Programme Controls within the PMO team, underpinning the overall PMO service offering and providing core support to the CEC Business. Our Project Controls Manager will be responsible for leading the provision and support of a Project Control Team working on One of the major Capital Programmes within the Commercial, Engineering & Capital Delivery Directorate of United Utilities.

The successful Project Controls Manager will be:

• Accountable for maintaining control structures and processes integrating scheduling, risk, change management, document control and costing activities to provide clear and timely visibility of project performance to enable rapid and effective decisions to be taken and control actions to be implemented on a fully informed basis.
• On-going commitment to identify and promote process developments within the team and improve performance and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Help deliver project controls across the programme
• Keep track of the master schedule and cost plan by regularly checking in with everyone involved
• Set up key project structures (WBS, CBS, RBS, OBS) to make sure controls are in place from start to finish
• Make sure the schedule, costs, and budget stay aligned throughout the projects within the programme
• Review contractor and internal plans to ensure they match the overall strategy
• Keep an up-to-date view of project progress and forecasts; report to senior leadership
• Make sure control processes and systems are properly set up and followed
• Manage resources across the programme
• Monitor and report on project performance using KPIs
• Flag any risks or issues early using agreed methods
• Prepare both regular and ad hoc progress reports
• Oversee how documents are managed and stored
• Manage project interfaces and dependencies, and make sure they're being handled properly
• Track how time and financial contingency is being used and updated
• Manage the change process and make sure it's followed at all levels

What we're looking for:

• Educated to degree level or equivalent in a relevant discipline orr equivalent relevant experience.
• MAPM/AcostE or equivalent formal PM/ Project controls qualification
• Considerable experience in Project Controls/Programme Delivery
• Very strong understanding of project controls based on industry best practise
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build and manage relationships at all levels within the organisation and across all major functions to achieve divisional / company objectives.
• Excellent technical skills and knowledge of Project Controls and budget management systems (Primavera P6, SAP, cost management systems and others).
• Experience of driving through system and process improvements and improving the team's technical capability.
• Strong financial awareness, with the ability to organise and map large information sets.
• Ability to use risk modelling software

What we offer:

• A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service, in addition to 8 bank holidays
• A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
• A 20% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
• A £5,000 car allowance to support your travel needs
• A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
• Flexible and hybrid working

About United Utilities:

United Utilities' (UU) mission is to deliver high-quality water for a more prosperous, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society. We are proud to be ranked in The Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers List. We promote a workplace culture where our people can grow, excel, and truly be themselves.

We uphold our ethics, values, and business model to fulfil our mission. By setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable, long-term value for our colleagues, customers, and communities. Whether you collaborate with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation.