Associate Director of Project Management, AtkinsRéalis

• We are seeking a credible senior leader with strong technical and commercial acumen
• Proven experience in project or programme management within the built environment
• Strong background in public sector and education projects
• Demonstrable knowledge of the DfE Technical Advisory Services framework
• Experience operating at portfolio or multi-project level
• Strong commercial awareness, including fee, scope, and variation management
• Experience delivering robust reporting into business P&L cycles
• Highly effective client-facing and stakeholder management skills
• Chartered status (APM, RICS, or equivalent)

Desirable

• We are seeking an Associate Director to act as a technical advisor across the regional portfolio, ensuring alignment with national delivery standards and driving consistently high performance
• This role offers the opportunity to play a key part in delivering a nationally important education programme while operating at an Associate Director level with influence across a regional landscape
• It involves working within a rapidly expanding £300m+ portfolio and collaborating with a high-performing national framework team
• The position also provides a clear progression pathway toward Director-level leadership, making it both impactful and career-advancing
• Reporting to the Head of Project Management – North West, and working closely with the DfE Client Director, you will operate as a critical link between regional delivery and the national framework team
• This is a highly client-facing role, with regular engagement with the DfE Head of Operations and Project Directors, and influence across a £250–£300m portfolio
• Act as regional technical advisor lead across all NW DfE projects, ensuring alignment with framework and national delivery standards
• Provide assurance across project lifecycle including governance, risk, and delivery strategies
• Lead gateway reviews and portfolio-level performance improvements
• Direct and influence project teams (without line management) to ensure consistent, best-in-class delivery
• Ensure seamless integration with the national delivery team
• Apply in-depth knowledge of the DfE Technical Advisory Services 2025 framework
• Drive consistency in process, reporting, and delivery approach across all projects
• Provide oversight of project finances across the portfolio
• Ensure robust management of fees, scope, and variations
• Support delivery of 90% utilisation targets and commercial performance
• Maintain accurate monthly reporting aligned to the business operating cycle
• Contribute to the national P&L through disciplined financial management
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior client stakeholders
• Build strong relationships with regional DfE leadership
• Enhance AtkinsRéalis’ reputation as a strategic partner within the framework