CK Project Director – Education (DfE Frameworks)
Yorkshire (UK-wide projects) - £80,000–£110,000 + benefits (DOE)
Shape the future of learning environments.
We're looking for a senior construction leader to drive the delivery of Department for Education (DfE) programmes and school building projects across the UK. This is a high-profile opportunity to lead a specialist team delivering new builds, refurbishments, and complex expansions that directly impact the next generation.
Why this role?
* National significance: Lead projects that transform schools, academies, and learning environments within a priority government sector.
* Complex, meaningful delivery: Work on high-value, multi-site programmes that demand technical excellence, compliance, and innovation.
* Clear leadership path: Influence both client outcomes and business growth, with the autonomy to shape the strategy and expand the education sector team.
What you'll lead
* Full lifecycle project and programme leadership — from feasibility, design management, and planning approvals through procurement, construction, and handover.
* Oversight of DfE frameworks, funding requirements, and governance — ensuring all projects align with compliance standards and value-for-money objectives.
* Strategic cost and programme management, applying robust controls and reporting to deliver predictable outcomes.
* Stakeholder engagement across DfE, local authorities, schools, contractors, design teams, and wider communities.
* Procurement strategy and contract management (NEC, JCT, and framework agreements) with a focus on performance and accountability.
* Team leadership: coaching and developing a high-performing consultancy team, fostering collaboration and excellence.
What you'll bring
* Degree (or equivalent) in Project Management, QS, Construction, or related discipline.
* Proven track record in leading education projects, ideally with experience on DfE frameworks, academy trusts, or major public-sector programmes.
* Strong commercial acumen and understanding of public-sector funding, procurement, and governance processes.
* Experience in complex stakeholder environments, balancing the needs of government bodies, schools, and communities.
* A collaborative, solutions-focused leadership style with excellent communication and negotiation skills.
* A passion for delivering sustainable, inspiring learning environments that improve outcomes for children and communities.
The offer
* £80,000–£110,000 + benefits (DOE)
* Career-defining opportunity to lead a nationally significant sector.
* A platform to grow both a team and a portfolio of high-impact education projects across the UK.
Confidential enquiries:
Caroline Kingsley
Arrange a call: Book a 15-min call
All conversations are handled in strict confidence