Contract Authority
Public Sector Resourcing
Location
Milton Keynes
Job Purpose
The Estates Directorate (ED) is a fundamental pillar of our Client’s corporate and operational structure. Its purpose is to provide and maintain a global platform that is secure, flexible and provides value for money to the UK taxpayer. ED enables policy delivery and ensures that people, buildings and information are kept safe, both in the UK and overseas.
ED comprises four departments: Strategy, Planning and Engagement Department; Project Delivery Department; Complex Projects Department; and Estate Operations and Compliance Department.
These Project Director roles will sit in either the Project Delivery Department or the Complex Projects Department.
Within ED they work collaboratively and inclusively, being open to innovation and challenge. They value well‑being, putting respect and kindness first, making the directorate a great place to work, learn and develop their careers.
Security Clearance
DV clearance is an essential requirement for this role. A minimum of eligibility and willingness to undergo these checks is mandatory. Preference may be given to candidates who hold active security clearance.
Responsibilities
- Lead the delivery of a substantial portfolio of capital projects through the full project lifecycle, ensuring delivery within agreed scope, programme, budget and governance frameworks.
- Resolve complex and inter‑related project challenges by analysing incomplete information, assessing and managing risks, and developing effective mitigation strategies.
- Exercise delegated authority to make significant decisions on project strategy, design, procurement and resource allocation, escalating issues beyond established risk criteria and appetite as appropriate.
- Engage and influence a wide range of senior internal and external stakeholders, representing the organisation in formal forums and securing alignment to project objectives.
- Appoint, manage and oversee the performance of external consultants, contractors and assigned staff/internal bodies, ensuring efficient resource utilisation and value for public funds.
Qualifications
- Extensive experience (typically 10+ years) delivering complex capital construction projects at a senior level within the built environment sector.
- Practical understanding of construction techniques, procurement routes (including NEC contracts), sustainability and health and safety to assure project quality and compliance.
- Strong knowledge of project lifecycle management, public sector governance, commercial and contractual management, and risk and change control in complex operational settings.
- Proven ability to interpret and apply construction, procurement and governance frameworks, including in novel or high‑risk overseas contexts.
- Excellent communication, negotiation and influencing skills, with experience engaging senior stakeholders and representing organisations in formal forums.
- Demonstratable ability to solve complex, multi‑faced problems, analyse risks and develop effective mitigation strategies under pressure.
- Experience managing large project portfolios (£150–200m), including oversight of consultants, contractors, resource allocation and line management of staff.
- Experience of having delivered construction projects overseas or in a remote location.
Work Location
This role can only be worked within the UK; overseas work is not permitted.
