Orchard are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the delivery of a new-build education project from pre-construction through to handover. This role requires proven experience managing complex construction projects within the education sector, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and compliance standards.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead and manage the full project lifecycle of a new-build education facility
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Act as the client’s representative, coordinating consultants, contractors, and stakeholders
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Develop and maintain project programmes, budgets, and risk registers
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Manage procurement strategies and oversee tender processes
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Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, building regulations, and education-sector standards
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Oversee design development, value engineering, and change control
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Monitor construction progress, quality, and health & safety performance
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Manage stakeholder engagement, including local authorities, education providers, and end users
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Lead project meetings and provide clear reporting on progress, risks, and issues
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Manage practical completion, commissioning, and handover processes
Required Experience & Skills
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Proven experience delivering new-build construction projects in the education sector (schools, colleges, universities, or similar)
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Strong understanding of construction processes, design coordination, and contract administration
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Experience managing multi-disciplinary consultant and contractor teams
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Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
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Strong commercial and budget management experience
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Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure
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High attention to detail with a proactive, solutions-focused approach
Qualifications
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Degree in Construction Management, Project Management, Engineering, or a related field (preferred)
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Professional accreditation (e.g. RICS, APM, CIOB, or equivalent) desirable
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Health & Safety qualification (e.g. SMSTS, NEBOSH) desirable