Senior Planner

Our Client, a major Rail, Highways, Power and Tunnels consultancy are looking for a Senior Planner to play a key role in ensuring the successful delivery, commercial viability, and resource optimisation of projects across the Midlands and North region. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: * Prepare cost and resource-loaded programmes covering the complete project scope in line with the contract. * Create and maintain robust, logically linked, cost and resource-loaded project programmes. * Regularly update project programmes, ensuring they align with client expectations. * Provide comprehensive programme updates and conduct reviews prior to submission. * Prepare and submit weekly site progress photo reports. * Carry out regular programme reviews to ensure contractual obligations are met. * Perform impact assessments, delay analyses, and prepare cause-and-effect delay programmes. * Monitor project progress through lookahead plans, site diaries, and regular site visits. * Conduct forensic planning and prepare EOT (Extension of Time) programmes to support commercial submissions. * Implement and maintain VVB planning standards and programme logic, while maintaining a programme log for all changes. * Generate Earned Value Analysis (EVA) reports and regularly review SPI (Schedule Performance Index) and CPI (Cost Performance Index). * Prepare tender programmes and contribute to tender submissions as requested by the Head of Planning. * Support the commercial team in managing risks and opportunities (R&O) at project level. * Resolve cross-functional planning issues and escalate concerns where necessary. * Provide support to other VVB projects as directed by the Planning Manager. ESSENTIALS EXPERIENCE: * Minimum 10 years of experience in planning. * Competence in creating planning documentation. * Experience in infrastructure environments (utilities/civils). * Strong understanding of achieving customer satisfaction and maintaining high standards. * Proficiency in planning software and operational requirements. * Awareness of inter-discipline requirements of design and construct projects. DESIRABLES: * Knowledge of major construction contracts (NEC, JCT, ICE). * Background in electrical or mechanical engineering. * Previous experience working for an M&E contractor. * Proven experience of 3–5 years in a similar role.