Senior Planner

Senior Planner – Construction ( West)

Site-based – Wigan (HMP Hindley Project)

At Wates, we're delivering one of the most significant projects in our history – and we're looking for a Senior Planner to play a key role in bringing it to life.

This is a rare opportunity to join our Construction team in the West, where you'll be part of a high-performing, people-first business delivering complex, high-profile projects that make a meaningful difference to communities.  This role stands out as you'll be working on the £400m redevelopment at HMP Hindley – one of the largest projects in Wates' history. This includes:

• Construction of three new 4-storey T60 houseblocks (precast concrete)
• A 4,000m² steel-framed kitchen workshop facility
• Major infrastructure works, secure fencing, and landscaping
• Refurbishment of existing buildings including segregation facilities, gatehouse and command centre

This is a long-term, 4-year programme, providing stability, scale, and the opportunity to make a genuine impact.

The team and culture

You'll join an established and supportive planning team that reflects the collaborative culture we've built in the West. This is a team where people stay, grow, and succeed together – with strong relationships across delivery teams, clients, and the supply chain. We pride ourselves on a “one team” culture, where ideas are valued, collaboration is key, and everyone is empowered to contribute – and we don't just say this – our eNPS score reflects this.

The role

As a Senior Planner, you'll be central to the successful delivery of the project, providing expert planning support across both pre-construction and live project stages.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and manage integrated construction programmes
• Ensure alignment between design, procurement, and delivery
• Lead on tender programmes and methodology proposals
• Support change management, including programme impact and EOT considerations
• Monitor and report on project performance and progress
• Collaborate with project teams to drive effective planning and delivery outcomes

What we're looking for

• Proven experience in a Senior Planning role within construction
• Strong capability in project planning, programming and reporting
• Experience of NEC contracts and collaborative planning
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with a “can-do” attitude
• Strong stakeholder engagement and team collaboration skills

We offer a compelling package alongside genuine career progression:

Competitive salary + bonus

Car allowance / company car

Travel expenses covered (HMRC rates)

Private medical, 8% pension, wellbeing support

26 days holiday + bank holidays

Industry-leading family leave (26 weeks maternity / 12 weeks paternity fully paid)

Ongoing learning, development, and clear progression routes