Project Director – Tunnelling & Civil Engineering
Location: UK-wide projects (travel required)
Start: Immediate
Red Sky Personnel is recruiting on behalf of a leading UK contractor to appoint an experienced Project Director. This is a pivotal leadership role delivering large-scale, high-value tunnelling and civils projects – including microtunnelling, shaft sinking, pipe jacking, and TBM tunnelling. The role carries full accountability for performance across programme, cost, safety, quality, and client engagement. You’ll lead the strategy and day-to-day execution of technically complex tunnelling and civils schemes across the UK. This is a hands-on leadership role that demands both strategic foresight and operational rigour.
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Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership
• Direct the safe and timely delivery of tunnelling and civils works across multiple disciplines
• Define project strategy from mobilisation through to completion
• Manage performance across safety, programme, quality, cost, and workforce
Technical & Operational Oversight
• Oversee tunnelling methodologies including TBMs, AVN systems, shaft construction, and pipe jacking
• Work closely with design and temporary works teams to ensure technical integrity
• Monitor construction progress, resolving delays and maintaining standards
Commercial & Contract Management
• Take full commercial responsibility including NEC contract compliance, cost control, and change management
• Work alongside commercial teams on subcontractor performance, variations, and final accounts
• Drive value engineering and enhance commercial outcomes
Team Leadership
• Build and lead high-performing, multi-disciplinary teams
• Mentor Project Managers, Agents, and Engineers, supporting development and succession planning
• Ensure projects are appropriately resourced at all stages
Health, Safety, Environment & Quality (HSEQ)
• Promote a safety-first culture and ensure compliance with all RAMS and client requirements
• Lead audits and ensure actions are closed out promptly
• Uphold a zero-harm approach across all activities
Stakeholder & Client Management
• Act as senior representative with clients, JV partners, and stakeholders
• Lead progress meetings, produce accurate reports, and manage expectations
• Represent the company at internal reviews, industry events, and senior forums
Essential:
• Extensive experience leading major tunnelling and shaft projects (£20m+)
• Strong understanding of microtunnelling, TBMs, shaft sinking, and pipe jacking
• Commercially astute, with NEC or similar contract experience
• Effective team leader with strong communication skills
• HND/HNC or Degree in Civil Engineering
• CSCS Black Card and SMSTS (or equivalent)
Desirable:
• Chartered Engineer status or working towards
• Familiarity with JV and alliance delivery models
• Knowledge of temporary works, dewatering, and ground treatment
• Proficient in digital construction tools and project management platforms
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This is a rare opportunity to lead technically challenging infrastructure projects with a respected UK contractor.
To express interest or find out more, contact Rachel Marrey at Red Sky Personnel: rachel.marrey@redskypersonnel.co.uk