Project Manager

At Wates Smartspace, we create exceptional spaces that transform the way our clients work, learn, heal and operate. As a specialist fit out, refurbishment and construction business, we deliver complex projects within occupied, operational and mission-critical environments across both the public and private sectors.

Due to continued growth, we are looking to appoint an experienced Project Manager to lead the successful delivery of a diverse portfolio of cut and carve, refurbishment and commercial fit out projects across a range of sectors.

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated construction professional who thrives in challenging live environments and enjoys working closely with clients to deliver high-quality projects safely, efficiently and collaboratively.

The Role

As Project Manager, you will take full responsibility for managing projects from pre-construction through to completion and handover, ensuring delivery against programme, budget, quality and safety objectives.

Working alongside internal delivery teams, consultants, subcontractors and key stakeholders, you will play a pivotal role in maintaining strong client relationships whilst ensuring projects are delivered to the high standards associated with the Wates brand.

Projects will vary in size and complexity and may include:

• Commercial office fit outs
• Cut and carve refurbishment schemes
• Healthcare and hospital environments
• Educational facilities and schools
• Prisons and secure environments
• Banking and financial institutions
• Retail and customer-facing facilities
• Public sector and government buildings

Many projects will be delivered within live, occupied and operational environments, requiring exceptional planning, stakeholder management and communication skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the safe and successful delivery of fit out and refurbishment projects from inception to completion.
• Develop and manage project programmes, budgets and delivery strategies.
• Ensure all works are delivered in accordance with contractual obligations and company procedures.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, supply chain partners and internal stakeholders.
• Manage project teams to achieve programme, quality, safety and financial targets.
• Coordinate and lead project meetings, progress reviews and client presentations.
• Monitor project performance and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Drive best practice in health, safety, environmental and quality management.
• Manage risk proactively and ensure effective mitigation strategies are in place.
• Oversee procurement activities and subcontractor performance.
• Ensure client satisfaction is maintained throughout the project lifecycle.

About You

We are keen to hear from experienced Project Managers who have successfully delivered refurbishment and fit out projects within fast-paced and technically challenging environments.

You will ideally have:

• Proven experience as a Project Manager within the construction industry.
• Strong fit out, refurbishment and/or cut and carve project experience.
• Experience delivering projects in one or more of the following sectors:
  • Prisons
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Banking and financial services
  • Retail
  • Public sector buildings
• Demonstrable experience working within live and occupied environments, where minimising disruption to end users is critical.
• Excellent client-facing and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Strong commercial awareness and financial management ability.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary project teams and supply chain partners.
• A thorough understanding of construction methodology, project controls and programme management.
• Robust knowledge of health and safety legislation and best practice.
• Relevant construction qualification (HNC, HND, Degree or equivalent).
• SMSTS, CSCS and First Aid qualifications are desirable.