Operations Director - Planning

Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.

The project:  The Gatwick Northern Runway Programme (NPR) is a generational infrastructure development that will deliver aviation, economical, sustainability and socially benefit values to the SE region. Integrated and working within capital delivery, you will work with integrated project stakeholders and supply chain collaboratively interacting positively to deliver the programme through its delivery lifecycles. You will be responsible for the leading the simultaneous delivery of a number of integrated projects within the Gatwick NPR programme. The role will ensure our clients programme governance procedures are followed including risk, cost and change control and will work collaboratively with other teams across the programme to deliver the NPR projects.

Managing the delivery of the planning function to achieve strategic outcomes and KPIs across the programme is essential. Providing strong leadership to senior teams, ensuring projects and tenders are effectively planned, monitored and continuously improved to deliver excellence aligned to wider NPR objectives.

Please note: This role will be based in Gatwick Airport on an initial 4 days per week. The successful Planning Lead will have an experience of managing a team of planners and have client facing skills within the construction/infrastructure sector.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Managing planning delivery across defined teams/supply chain, ensuring projects and tenders are effectively planned, monitored and aligned to NPR objectives.
• Providing ethical, compliant leadership with full integrated schedule accountability, shaping long‑term delivery strategy and sustainable business outcomes.
• Developing high‑performing, inclusive teams through mentoring, talent development, innovation and knowledge‑sharing across NPR.
• Accountable for Mace business planning and long‑term planning performance aligned to wider company objectives.
• Managing delivery of integrated complex, multi‑sector projects, providing expert planning advice and continuous performance improvement.
• Championing the planning service with clients and industry, building strong partnerships and influencing strategic, commercial outcomes.
• Developing high‑performing teams, driving talent growth, trust, net zero delivery and bottom‑line results aligned to NPR and Mace Consult business objectives.

You’ll need to have:

• Degree or equivalent professional experience in construction/infrastructure, project, programme or commercial management.
• Significant integrated planning leadership experience on large, complex or landmark aviation infrastructure/construction programmes.
• Expert knowledge of planning systems, schedule management tools and integrated project controls.
• Strong leadership, commercial acumen and capability to manage large, multi‑disciplinary teams across locations.

Our values

Safety first - Going home safe and well\: We champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.

Client focus - Deliver on our promise\: We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long term relationships with our clients.

Integrity - Always do the right thing\: We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.

Create opportunity - For our people to excel\: We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop. 

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.

We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable with-in the role.

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