Project Director

Abatec are excited to be partnered with a leading contractor in the water sector, who support multiple long-term water sector frameworks. We are looking for an experienced Projects Director ready to lead the delivery of a £150m flagship project in Southampton, an exciting, design and build infrastructure scheme working on behalf of Southern Water. This is a critical, high-impact role reporting directly to the Programme Director and leading multidisciplinary teams across the full project lifecycle.

This project is part of Southern Waters AMP8 investment program which has been awarded for an initial seven-year term with an option to extend up to a further 5 years ensuring security of work in the local area. Our client will deliver critical infrastructure upgrades for both water and wastewater treatment works, pumping stations, and reservoirs with AMP8 expected to be the largest investment period so far for Southern Water.

As a Project Director you will:

• Lead the direction, coordination, and execution of a major water infrastructure project from tender to final completion.
• Drive exceptional health and safety standards across direct and subcontracted teams.
• Plan and implement the Project Execution Plan (PEP), ensuring it aligns with the business strategy.
• Manage risk, forecasting, and commercial performance in line with NEC and IChemE contracts.
• Build and maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships to ensure satisfaction and project success.
• Oversee project resources, ensuring the team has the skills and tools to succeed.
• Champion governance, quality assurance, and compliance with BMS and CDM regulations.
• Monitor and report non-conformities, identifying associated costs.
• Manage commercial aspects of projects proactively, providing accurate forecasts and estimates.
• Promote continuous improvement, innovation, and industry best practices.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of water and wastewater design and build projects.

Our client requires a Project Director with:

• Proven track record delivering multi-disciplinary design and construction projects, ideally within the water sector.
• Degree in a construction, engineering, or commercial discipline.
• Project Management Qualification (e.g., PMQ or equivalent).
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Deep understanding of construction contracts (NEC, IChemE).
• Experience in planning, cost control, risk management, and team leadership.
• Working knowledge of CDM and Health & Safety regulations.

Salary/Benefits:

• £110,000 - £130,000 per annum
• Car Allowance
• Discretionary bonus scheme up to 16%
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Option to purchase an additional 5 days leave
• Employer contribution pension scheme
• Private medical insurance
• Life assurance
• Health insurance

If you would like more information, or to apply for this vacancy, please contact Hayley Fisher on (phone number removed). The reference for this vacancy is (phone number removed). 

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Abatec Ltd. is working as an employment agency on behalf of a client.