Associate Project Controls Manager

We are seeking an accomplished Associate Project Controls Manager to lead project controls functions across major Data Centre and infrastructure projects. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of project planning, scheduling, cost control, risk management, and reporting, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and safety standards. This is a key leadership role, responsible for driving best practices, continuous improvement, and strategic value across multi-billion-dollar programmes in diverse sectors and regions.

Role Responsibilities

· Lead the project controls function across multiple, complex projects, including Data Centres, infrastructure, and industrial facilities.

· Oversee the development, construction, and commissioning of mission-critical projects, ensuring integration of design, procurement, construction, and handover activities.

· Establish and implement best practices, processes, and tools for planning, cost control, risk management, and reporting.

· Provide strategic insights and leadership to project teams and stakeholders, supporting informed decision-making.

· Drive value management reviews at every project stage, balancing capital and operational expenditure.

· Lead cost control processes, including budget development, forecasting, variance analysis, and change management.

· Develop and maintain robust governance, risk, assurance, and reporting frameworks across programmes.

· Identify and proactively mitigate schedule risks and delays.

· Ensure alignment with client and internal financial performance targets.

· Manage change control processes, assessing impacts on cost, schedule, and resources.

· Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement within project teams.

· Mentor and develop team members, supporting knowledge transfer and professional growth.

· Maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and stakeholder engagement

Candidate Profile

Qualifications

· Degree in Construction, Engineering, or a related discipline (e.g., Chemical Engineering, Project Management, or equivalent).

· Professional certifications (e.g., PMP, NEC3, or similar) are highly desirable

Experience

· Significant experience in Project Controls within the construction and engineering sectors, with a focus on Data Centres, infrastructure, and large-scale capital projects.

· Proven track record of delivering multi-billion-dollar programmes from inception to completion across diverse regions (EMEA, UK, Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific).

· Leadership experience managing cross-functional and multicultural teams.

· Expert knowledge of project control tools, methodologies, and best practices (e.g., Earned Value Analysis, risk management, cost forecasting, schedule management).

· Experience with the full project lifecycle, including RIBA stages 1–5.

· Demonstrated ability to implement and improve project management processes, governance, and reporting systems.

· Strong stakeholder management and client relations skills.

Behaviours

· Recognised as a client focused, positive collaborator who shares knowledge freely and offers support to their peers and seniors. Recognised as a team player with a strong willingness to learn.

· Demonstrates a positive and proactive approach to the role, and will be committed to delivering customer service excellence, with good commercial results.