Planning Manager

We are currently recruiting for a Planning Manager to join the team delivering a high-profile major infrastructure scheme at Junction 9 of the M3 in Winchester — a critical project aimed at transforming traffic flow between the M3 and A34. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a major highways upgrade that will significantly reduce congestion and enhance connectivity across the region.

The Winnall Junction currently experiences severe congestion and delays. This project will deliver a fully free-flowing interchange between the A34 and M3, through extensive construction works including:

• Three new bridges to widen the existing motorway
  
  
• Major earthworks and a large underpass for same-direction southbound traffic
  
  
• New roundabouts and removal of existing signal-controlled junctions
  
  
• Extension and realignment of slip roads
  
  As Planning Manager, you’ll be responsible for leading all planning and programme management activities across this complex project. You will guide a team of planners and work closely with operational, commercial, and design leads to ensure programme integrity from tender through to completion. Your role will be critical to the successful delivery of this technically challenging and high-impact scheme.
  
  Key Responsibilities
  
  
• Develop and implement the overall programme strategy for the project, ensuring integration across all work packages.
  
  
• Lead and manage the planning team, setting clear direction and priorities.
  
  
• Oversee the production and maintenance of detailed project programmes using Primavera P6
  
  
• Monitor progress, lead delay analysis and mitigation planning, and manage change control processes.
  
  
• Report programme performance to senior leadership and key stakeholders, both internal and external.
  
  
• Collaborate with delivery teams across structures, highways and earthworks to ensure alignment between live site operations and programme forecasts.
  
  What We’re Looking For:
  
  
• Significant experience in planning major civil engineering projects, ideally within highways or infrastructure.
  
  
• Strong technical understanding of earthworks, structures, and highway construction methods.
  
  
• Proficiency in planning software (Primavera P6)
  
  
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
  
  
• A proactive, collaborative mindset with the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment