Project/Programme Lead - Major Programmes

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Programme Director to lead the successful delivery of major capital programmes (typically £250m+) within complex construction across multiple Real Estate sectors including Manufacturing, Life Sciences, Data Centers and Defence.

This is a strategic leadership role, requiring a credible and proven programme delivery experience. You will have a strong construction background, capable of operating at both programme and project level detail and be able to successfully influence and drive investment decisions.

You will take accountability for end-to-end programme delivery, from early definition and mobilisation through to execution, transition, and benefits realisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end delivery of major, complex programmes across the full lifecycle (definition, mobilisation, delivery, closure, and benefits realisation)
• Set and maintain programme strategy, governance, and delivery frameworks aligned to client objectives and business cases
• Provide credible leadership across multidisciplinary teams (project management, commercial, planning, engineering, and technical disciplines)
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders, including Board and C-suite level
• Drive integration across multiple projects, aligning scope, schedule, cost, risk, and benefits
• Establish robust programme controls including cost, schedule, risk, change, and reporting
• Lead commercial and financial performance including forecasting and contract management
• Manage programme-level risks, issues, and dependencies
• Champion health, safety, and sustainability
• Develop and lead high-performing, multidisciplinary teams

About You

• Proven track record delivering major programmes (£250m+) within construction, infrastructure or capital delivery environments
• Strong project delivery background with progression into programme leadership
• Experience leading and integrating large multidisciplinary teams
• Deep experience across the full programme lifecycle
• Strong understanding and practical application of construction delivery models, procurement routes and contracts (e.g. NEC, JCT)
• Experience working in complex or regulated environments
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement with C-suite influencing experience
• Strong commercial acumen including cost, risk and value management
• Ability to manage ambiguity and complexity
• Demonstrate an understanding and application of digital tools and strategy, including AI
• Demonstrate collaborative working practices

• Degree-qualified in construction, engineering, programme or project management, or related discipline
• Professional accreditation such as APM, MSP, PRINCE2, or PMI
• Experience implementing programme governance and controls frameworks
• Knowledge of programme and project controls tools and systems
• Excellent communication and leadership skills

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.

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At Turner & Townsend we’re passionate about making the difference. That means delivering better outcomes for our clients, helping our people to realise their potential, and doing our part to create a prosperous society.

Every day we help our major global clients deliver ambitious and highly technical projects, in over 110 offices worldwide.