Planning Manager

Planning Manager Client: Transport for London (TfL) Location: 5 Endeavour Square, London, E20 1JN (Hybrid Working) Pay Rate: • £382.96 - £402.11 per day PAYE • £500 - £525 per day Umbrella Contract Length: 6-Month Rolling Contract About the Role Reed is partnering with Transport for London (TfL) to recruit an experienced Planning Manager to join their Major Projects Directorate. The successful candidate will support the Project Management Unit (PMU) by developing, maintaining and reporting on budget-loaded project programmes and schedules. You will play a key role in coordinating works with contractors and external stakeholders, ensuring programme data is maintained in line with PMO requirements, and providing valuable analysis to support project delivery and decision-making. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the successful delivery of major infrastructure projects across London's transport network. Key Responsibilities • Develop and manage complex, multi-project programmes and schedules to ensure delivery of intended business outcomes. • Analyse project schedules, identify critical issues, and support the development of effective mitigation and recovery plans. • Lead the production of stakeholder-facing programme reports, providing clear updates on progress, risks, issues and impacts. • Manage the implementation of planning processes and procedures in accordance with approved project governance frameworks. • Provide guidance, support and supervision to project planners and planning assistants where required. • Build and maintain strong working relationships with project management, planning teams, contractors and key stakeholders. • Deliver Project Controls training and support senior management in the interpretation of schedule and cost reports. • Collaborate with Senior Planning Managers, Planning Managers and Planning Assistants to resolve common planning challenges and establish consistent approaches. • Analyse programme controls data and produce high-quality reports and presentations for senior stakeholders and project sponsors. • Review and improve planning processes, systems and methodologies to drive performance improvements. • Assess contractual programmes and compensation events, providing support on schedule-related commercial matters. • Promote a positive health, safety and environmental culture across projects. • Support TfL's commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and sustainability across all project activities. Skills & Experience RequiredEssential • Extensive experience in planning and programme controls within major capital projects and programmes. • Strong understanding of project and programme management principles within complex infrastructure environments. • Advanced knowledge of Project Portfolio Management (PPM) systems and planning tools. • Proven experience developing, analysing and managing integrated project schedules. • Strong understanding of NEC contracts and the impact of contractual requirements on project controls and planning activities. • Experience producing and presenting programme performance reports for senior stakeholders. • Excellent analytical, communication and stakeholder management skills. • Proficiency in industry-standard planning software such as Primavera P6 and/or Microsoft Project. Desirable • Experience working within rail, transport or large-scale infrastructure projects. • Knowledge of planning, design and construction activities across one or more of the following areas: • Track • Signalling • Stations • Civils • Surface Transport Projects • Awareness of health and safety requirements within operational environments.