Planning Lead – Major Data Centre Project

Permanent On-site Construction Planning Lead – Major Data Centre Project

The Opportunity

A leading main contractor is seeking an experienced Planning Lead to join a flagship hyperscale data centre project in London. This is a high-profile, technically complex scheme delivering mission critical infrastructure to the highest standards of quality, safety, and programme certainty.

The successful candidate will lead all planning and programme management activities across the project lifecycle, working closely with project directors, commercial teams, consultants, subcontractors, and client stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery.

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior planner looking to take ownership of a major scheme within a fast-growing sector.

Key Responsibilities

• check_circle Lead the development, management, and maintenance of the master construction programme.
• check_circle Manage short-term and long-term planning activities across all project phases.
• check_circle Coordinate planning inputs from design, procurement, commercial, and construction teams.
• check_circle Produce detailed progress reports, programme updates, and critical path analysis.
• check_circle Identify programme risks, delays, and mitigation strategies.
• check_circle Chair planning and progress meetings with internal and external stakeholders.
• check_circle Review subcontractor programmes and ensure alignment with overall project milestones.
• check_circle Support project controls, earned value reporting, and change management processes.
• check_circle Provide strategic planning support to senior leadership and client teams.
• check_circle Ensure all programmes are compliant with contractual obligations and project requirements.

About You

• check_circle Proven experience in a Planning Lead or Senior Planner role with a Tier 1 or large main contractor.
• check_circle Strong background delivering large-scale construction projects, ideally within:
• check_circle Data Centres| Mission critical facilities| MEP-intensive projects| Pharmaceutical or industrial projects
• check_circle Expert knowledge of Primavera P6.
• check_circle Strong understanding of construction sequencing, logistics, commissioning, and project controls.
• check_circle Experience managing programmes on projects valued £100m+.
• check_circle Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.