Project Manager – Capital Development (Inside IR35)

Contract (Hybrid)

Location: South East
Contract: 9 months initially (scope to extend)
Working Pattern: Hybrid - 3 days in office per week.

A Local Planning Authority is seeking an experienced Project Manager to support the delivery of a major capital development project as it progresses from RIBA Stage 2 into Stage 3. This is a high‑profile, strategically important scheme requiring strong planning discipline, financial oversight, and close collaboration with internal technical teams.

About the Role

You will take responsibility for developing the project plan, establishing the financial baseline, and ensuring governance‑compliant reporting throughout Stage 3. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a team‑based environment, communicates openly, and understands the expectations of working within a regulated public‑sector setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Stage 3 project planning — build and maintain a structured plan with milestones, dependencies, risks, and statutory requirements.
• Financial baseline management — transfer Stage 2 cost data into a live baseline tracker for ongoing reporting.
• Stakeholder reporting — provide clear, regular updates to senior leadership.
• Technical team coordination — work closely with internal engineers and specialists to ensure aligned delivery.
• Pre‑construction activity oversight — coordinate ecology surveys and other time‑critical tasks.
• Governance‑compliant documentation — prepare reports using approved templates and council‑standard formats.
• On‑site collaboration — attend the office on agreed days to work alongside the Project Lead.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience delivering capital or infrastructure projects within local government or similar regulated environments.
• Strong understanding of RIBA stages, especially Stage 2 → Stage 3.
• Proven ability to produce structured project plans and financial tracking tools.
• A collaborative communicator who works transparently and constructively.
• Someone who integrates into a team rather than operating as an isolated consultant.
• Comfortable working within governance frameworks and using organisation‑issued systems exclusively.

Key Requirements

• Inside IR35 engagement only.
• Minimum 3 days per week on site in the South East.
• Must use organisation‑issued laptop and systems for all project work.
• Ability to deliver structure, clarity, and visibility quickly.

Why This Role Matters

This project is a major strategic priority for the organisation, with significant visibility and impact. You’ll be joining at a pivotal moment, helping shape the feasibility and delivery of a key public‑sector asset while working alongside a committed internal team.

Why Apply?
This is a chance to make a real impact on the future of the community while working in a collaborative and supportive environment. Flexible working options and professional development opportunities are available.

If you’d like to be considered, please send us your CV. Prefer an informal chat first? Feel free to email George.lake@oysterpartnership.com or call 07441 472416.

My LinkedIn can also be reached here: George Lake | LinkedIn