Senior project controller

Senior Project Controller

Bristol

About us

Hoare Lea is a human-centric and planet-conscious engineering consultancy. We offer intelligent and sustainable solutions to complex design challenges for the built environment throughout the UK and further afield.

We provide a wide range of engineering and consultancy services, including acoustics, air quality, building services (MEP), fire, lighting, security and sustainability to name but a few. Together, our highly skilled teams use technical expertise and problem-solving skills to bring buildings to life. We ensure that whatever the building, its design is outstanding, and its operations meet the needs of the communities it serves.

We are as committed to providing an environment where everyone can realise their unique potential. So, in joining Hoare Lea, you will experience a business that enriches your knowledge, supports your wellbeing, and welcomes your individuality. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in our 9-day fortnight scheme, thriving community groups, varied social and networking events, and extensive professional and technical development schemes. We also offer an extensive benefits package, including private medical cover, an electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, and 25 days of annual leave (increasing with service), alongside flexible and hybrid working.

Whatever your ambitions or circumstances, our aim is to enable everyone to develop their knowledge, give their best, and enjoy what they do.

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior Project Controller based in our Bristol office.

The Senior Project Controller (SPC) will play a pivotal role in supporting the Southwest Regional project teams by implementing and overseeing project control processes. Reporting to the Project Controls Manager, the SPC will be responsible for ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget.

The SPC will work closely with Project Leaders to ensure effective planning, monitoring, and reporting across all phases of project delivery, contributing to the successful execution.

The SPC will also collaborate with Project Controls Manager to continuously improve project delivery processes and contribute to the wider objectives of thebusiness.

The Senior Project Controller (SPC) will be responsible for supporting project teams across the Southwest Region, ensuring that all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to budget.

The SPC will be expected to support Project Controls Manager and Project Leaders in the planning, execution, control and closure of projects, ensuring that scope, schedules, costs, and risks are closely monitored and managed to achieve the best outcomes for Hoare Lea and our clients. While primarily working under the guidance of the Project Controls Managers, the SPC will have the autonomy to manage specific project tasks, particularly in the areas of scheduling, cost management, and risk management.

The Senior Project Controller will be responsible for:

• Support the Project Leaders and Project Controls Manager (PCM) in planning, executing, monitoring & controlling and closing projects, ensuring that each stage of the project is managed efficiently to meet the defined objectives.
• Assist in the management of project budgets and costs, ensuring financial control and cost efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.
• Support the development and maintenance of project resource plans, assisting Project Leaders in monitoring utilisation and forecasting future resource requirements.
• Contribute to risk management, identifying potential risks and supporting the development of mitigation strategies.
• Provide essential support in managing project schedules, ensuring that all milestones are met on time and that any delays are addressed proactively.
• Support project teams in maintaining accurate project information within project delivery systems, ensuring data quality, reporting requirements and governance processes are followed.
• Take responsibility for monitoring project performance and providing accurate and timely reports to Project Leaders, ensuring visibility on key project metrics.
• Ensure that all internal governance and compliance processes are strictly followed, in line with Hoare Lea’s Integrated Management System (IMS).
• Provide crucial support during project kick-off workshops, helping to establish a clear plan for successful project execution.
• Contribute to lessons learned workshops, helping to capture and apply insights to improve future project delivery.
• Support the change control process, helping to track, document, and communicate project changes, while having the autonomy to ensure changes are correctly implemented across the team.
• Work closely with PCM to ensure that project teams are supported in their day-to-day activities, helping to resolve issues and improve efficiency.
• Help to embed Project Excellence principles by supporting the team in implementing best practices in project deliveryand controls.
• Collaborate with the Project Leaders and Project Directors to support seamless project delivery.

The SPC will use a range of established tools and processes to achieve these objectives and will support the continuous development of new techniques where appropriate. This role requires strong attention to detail, communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to work effectively within project teams.

About you

To be successful in this role you’ll need:

• Experience in project controls or a related role, ideally within engineering, construction, or consultancy environments.
• Understanding of project management techniques, including scheduling, risk management, and financial tracking.
• Experience supporting project planning, resource management or project financial reporting.
• Proficiency in MS Office, with advanced knowledge of Excel; knowledge of Microsoft Project.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to interact with different teams and stakeholders.
• Problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues and proactively support the development of solutions.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret project performance data and identify trends.
• The ability to work with autonomy on specific project tasks while supporting senior staff on larger, more complex projects.
• A flexible approach to work, with the capacity to adapt to changing priorities and project demands.
• A commitment to learning and development, with a desire to continuously improve skills in project controls and delivery.

How to apply

To apply simply complete a CV profile and submit your application, or for further information please contact

If shortlisted, one of our recruitment team will be in touch to arrange an introductory call (about 30 minutes) to discuss the role and your experience in more detail. From there, successful candidates will be invited to attend a panel interview, either via Microsoft Teams or in person at one of our offices. We aim to provide feedback at each stage of the process.

Adjustments and accommodations

If there are adjustments or accommodations that we can put in place to help you participate and give your best at any stage of the recruitment process (whether relating to disability, neurodivergence or anything else) please let us know.

Data privacy

We have updated our terms and conditions for candidates, click here to find out more.

Recruitment agencies

We have a Preferred Supplier List of trusted partners who assist us when required. We do not acknowledge speculative CVs or unsolicited candidate introductions from agencies not on the list.