Project Manager
LOCATION: Durham
ROLE OVERVIEW:
My client is seeking a Project Manager to lead, manage, and inspire multidisciplinary teams—both internal and external—within a structured project management framework. The role is central to delivering successful projects that drive the growth of a thriving renewables development firm. The Project Manager will be responsible for advancing complex projects through their development lifecycle while maintaining a proactive approach to risk management. This position demands the development and execution of project strategies with a strong emphasis on cost control and adherence to health and safety standards.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Lead, manage, and motivate project teams to achieve successful outcomes that align with business targets and growth objectives.
* Manage projects in accordance with the established Project Management Framework (PMF).
* Coordinate and develop comprehensive strategies that balance commercial risk, planning success, and project deliverability.
* Propose and implement robust risk management strategies throughout the entire project lifecycle.
* Develop and maintain accurate core project documentation, including Financial Appraisals, Programmes, Cashflow, Budget, Health and Safety Information, and Risk/Opportunity Registers.
* Drive efficiency improvements and cost reductions in line with strategic project goals.
* Successfully deliver projects from inception and site identification through to engineering design, planning consents, due diligence, financial close, and construction.
* Collaborate closely with the senior management team to implement portfolio strategies.
* Support the skills development of the broader project management team in collaboration with the Projects Director.
* Build and maintain key external relationships with project decision-makers, including statutory bodies, politicians, landowners, and host communities, with support from Estates, Community Managers, and Planners.
ACCOUNTABILITIES:
As the Project Manager, you will be fundamentally responsible and accountable to the business for all aspects of the project, including:
* Health and Safety Management
* Commercial viability
* Budgetary control and procurement
* Financial assessment and appraisals
* Risk and opportunity management
* Compliance with the agreed PMF
* Ensuring projects progress with the requisite authority levels and managing business expectations
* Quality assurance and adherence to project standards
* Providing project assurance to the board
* Sponsor management
* Programme and resource management
* Conflict resolution
* Project administration
QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, AND EXPERIENCE:
Essential:
* Degree or equivalent qualifications
* Minimum of 3 years of project management experience in commercial-scale renewable energy or property development projects
* Basic understanding of project management principles (e.g., PRINCE2, APM, RICS)
* Strong grasp of valuation methods, budgeting, and accounting principles
* Proven leadership and people management skills
* Knowledge of health and safety legislation or related qualification
* Experience in coordinating multidisciplinary teams
* Broad understanding of renewable energy technologies
* Detailed understanding of risk management principles
* Proven track record in strategy development and project delivery
* Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
* Understanding of the UK planning system
Desirable:
* Degree in environmental studies, renewable energy, property, engineering, or a related science
* Professional qualification (RICS, IEMA, APM, or similar)
* In-depth knowledge of the town and country planning process
* Experience with site identification, financing, due diligence, construction, and delivery
* Experience in tendering, negotiating, and implementing key contracts
* Understanding of the UK political system, with existing political relationships preferred
PERSONAL QUALITIES/COMPETENCIES:
* Commercially minded with strong interpersonal skills
* Comfortable working with senior management
* High level of self-awareness and personal resilience
* Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and make sound decisions
* Self-starter with strong negotiation, influencing, and motivational skills
* Strategic thinker who can manage day-to-day details
* Independent thinker capable of challenging current practices
* Attentive to detail with a strong commitment to integrity and honesty
* Proven ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills
* Team player with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
* Positive and enthusiastic attitude toward overcoming technical challenges
* Resilient and perseverant on long-term projects
* Willingness to travel regularly, including site visits and overnight stays.