Senior Project Manager / Project Director

Senior Project Manager / Project Director – Water Infrastructure – Thames Region (Hybrid working available)

Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits Package

Sector: Civil Engineering / Water Infrastructure

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Are you a seasoned project leader in the water sector, ready to take the reins on major delivery programmes?

We are currently partnering with a well-established design and build contractor operating at the forefront of water infrastructure to recruit a Senior Project Manager / Project Director. This is a key leadership role, offering hybrid working and long-term project involvement across the Thames region.

As part of a high-performing delivery team, you’ll oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of complex, multi-disciplinary water and wastewater projects—ensuring safety, quality, budget, and client satisfaction are consistently delivered at the highest standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead project teams in line with company strategy, from planning and execution through to final delivery.
• Ensure compliance with the Business Management System (BMS) throughout all project stages.
• Maintain and strengthen client and stakeholder relationships, ensuring satisfaction and repeat business.
• Deliver projects within the tender estimate and programme, with a proactive approach to safety and risk management.
• Ensure appropriately detailed construction plans and method statements are approved prior to activity commencement.
• Oversee commercial aspects including forecasting, reporting, and risk management.
• Present at internal governance reviews and contribute to strategic decisions.
• Foster a high-performance culture with a strong focus on people development and health & safety.

About You

 Essential Requirements:

• Proven experience managing multi-disciplinary design and construction projects—ideally in the water sector.
• Degree (or equivalent) in Construction, Engineering, or Commercial discipline.
• APM PMQ (or equivalent professional Project Management qualification).
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate diverse teams to meet tight deadlines and objectives.
• Excellent knowledge of NEC or IChemE forms of contract.
• Skilled in project planning, budgeting, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong understanding of CDM regulations and health & safety legislation.

 Desirable:

• Chartered status with a relevant professional institution.
• NEC Project Manager Accreditation.
• Experience in the delivery of water and wastewater treatment plants.

Technical & Behavioural Competencies

Advanced knowledge of:

• Contract & Quality Management
• Governance and Commercial Controls
• Project Planning and Digital Delivery
• Procurement and Resource Management
• Client & Stakeholder Management
  You’ll also bring exceptional communication, leadership, integrity, and client focus to this senior-level role.

What’s on Offer

Our client offers a dynamic and supportive environment, backed by long-term framework contracts and a genuine focus on career development. You'll enjoy:

• Competitive salary
• Hybrid working (job dependent)
• Car / Car allowance
• 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays (+ option to buy up to 5 more)
• Pension, Life Assurance & Private Medical Insurance
• Cycle to work scheme, discount hub, and more…

 This is a fantastic opportunity for a senior project professional looking to step into a high-impact role with clear progression opportunities.

 Company information

At First Recruitment Group we understand just how important it is to secure the right people. That is why our Recruitment Consultants always take the time to understand requirements in detail and offer sound advice to both clients and candidates.  We actively recruit at all levels and this is a superb opportunity for Senior Project Management professionals looking for new employment.

As part of putting people first, we strive to be an equal opportunities employer and we are always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce, working closely with our clients to ensure everyone is included.