Senior Project Manager – Visitor Centre, Havant Thicket Reservoir
Our Water company client are seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead delivery of a new visitor centre at the Havant Thicket Reservoir on the South Coast.
The role is a permanent position with the ideal candidate able to be on site 3 days a week minimum.
Our client are looking to create a visitor centre that reflects the beauty and importance of a landmark reservoir build project – a place where the community can connect with nature, learn about water sustainability, and enjoy the surrounding environment.
You will guide the project through every stage – from design and procurement to construction and smooth transition into daily operations. Before work begins, a comprehensive site management plan will be established to ensure the highest standards of safety, quality, and environmental care throughout the build.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as NEC Project Manager for the Visitor Centre design and construction contracts, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to the required quality.
* Oversee all project phases – design development, planning application, construction, commissioning, and handover into operations.
* Lead and coordinate the multidisciplinary project team, including QS, H&S, PMO, design, planning, procurement, finance, and commercial functions.
* Champion health, safety, wellbeing, quality, and environmental performance across all project activities.
* Scrutinise contractor submissions such as payment applications, programmes, compensation events, and early warnings.
* Chair coordination meetings with designers, contractors, and stakeholders.
* Develop and manage key stakeholder relationships, securing agreement on project delivery plans and communicating progress clearly.
* Represent client at stakeholder and public consultation meetings, ensuring transparency and collaboration.
* Work with consultancy and local council partners (client Operations team, Forestry England, Hampshire County Council, LPAs) to develop the Site Management and Recreation Plans.
* Plan and manage the transition into operations, including team mobilisation and procurement of operational contracts.
* Ensure compliance with all relevant planning, environmental, and statutory regulations, including CDM, Building Regulations, and Section 106 agreements.
* Provide regular progress reporting and governance papers to support informed decision-making and maintain project accountability.
Skills, Qualifications & Experience
* Strong communication and team leadership skills.
* Good analytical skills with the ability to review and write technical specifications, procurement strategies, business cases, decision support papers and progress reports.
* Strong appreciation of risk management techniques, with experience of managing budgets for construction projects.
* Good knowledge of construction materials, processes and equipment.
* Proficiency with Excel/PowerPoint/Word/Teams.
* Experience of using Contract Management Software would be an advantage.
* Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field of study.
* More than 10 years of experience in design and construction management.
* Experience of leading design and build projects.
* NEC contract management experience is essential.
* Chartered with a relevant institution e.g. MICE, MIET.
* Project management qualification (PRINCE, APM or PMI).
* Retail, catering or visitor facilities experience would be an advantage.
* Full driving licence.
Benefits
* £76‑86k base salary.
* 3 or 4 days based on site with some flex around home life.
* 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
* Excellent water company pension (up to 15%).
* Up to 6% company discretionary bonus.
* Private medical.
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