Construction Planner

Whitebox Construction Management was formed in 2021 with a distinctive vision, born out of a desire to redefine industry norms and elevate the standards of project execution. We recognised the need for a paradigm shift in the construction sector, and our foundation is rooted in a commitment to doing things differently. Embracing a collaborative approach, we believe that collective expertise yields superior results, fostering a culture of shared innovation and continuous improvement. 

As a B-Corp, sustainability is at the heart of our mission, as we acknowledge the profound impact construction has on the environment. By integrating sustainable practices into every facet of our operations, from design to execution, we aim to minimise our ecological footprint and contribute to a greener, more resilient future. 

Whitebox is dedicated to achieving service excellence by seamlessly integrating sustainable practices into our operations. We are committed to unlocking value for our clients and stakeholders through environmentally responsible practices. By prioritising sustainability, we aim to create lasting positive impacts on the environment, society, and our clients' bottom lines. 

We’re looking for people who share our commitment to building a better world through sustainable and responsible construction management. As part of the B-Corp community, we believe in the power of business to drive positive change, and we strive to lead by example in the construction industry. Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond compliance; it is ingrained in our values, practices, and every project we undertake.

The Planner is a member of the Whitebox Team but works across WWA, Whitebox, and other subsidiaries as required. You will report to the Whitebox Construction Lead. You will not initially have any line management responsibility.  

You will develop construction and development programs for a variety of projects. Be involved early within the projects and develop programs for tenders/bids and through to construction. Work with the site teams, designer, other consultants, and trade partners to ensure the programs are realistic and managed accordingly. Take ownership of the programming function within the wider business and for specific projects. 

The location of the job will be site-based within the Exeter office. The individual will need to be mobile throughout the South West and will be required to attend sites and client offices as required. Whitebox is committed to hybrid-working. It will be possible for this role to have an element of hybrid working. 

• Develop programs and provide planning management for projects from bid through to build. 
• Works with site teams, senior management, consultants, designers, and trade partners to effectively develop and manage planning and program activities.  
• Regularly review and update programs with the input of others and communicate with internal and external stakeholders. 
• Capture change events within the program and advise on time impacts and effects on the project's critical path. Advise commercial team on acceleration and delay and assist with completion of change control procedural forms. 
• Work with the commercial and site team to input into the procurement schedules and ensure that all long lead items are captured within the program.   
• Assist the site team in the production of the project reports. Review site activity through site visits and capture progress on drop lines and re-profiling programs.  
• Chair and/or attend client and project team workshops to develop programs and project controls collaboratively.  
• Identify project risks and input them into the risk register. Identify suitable control measures or mitigations and work up solutions with the wider project team. 
• Be involved with the selection and procurement of trade partners.  
• Promote best practices and innovation for all operations, particularly in relation to Health, Safety, and the environment. 
• Promote sustainable solutions to efficient management of waste, energy, and water throughout the project. 
• Report any non-conformance or compliance issues to the Site Manager or escalate to the senior team as required. 
• Contribute to the strategic development of the business and its parent company. 
• Undertake such other activities as may be required to fulfil the requirements of the role. 

• Member of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Association of Project Management (APM) or other relevant professional chartership/membership, or working towards membership. 
• CSCS Card Holder 
• Construction or Civil Engineering HNC / HND / Degree / NVQ 6 in Site Management – Other relevant academic qualifications may also be considered for the right candidate. 
• Valid UK driving license. 
• Proven experience working as lead planner on projects up to a value of £15m or as a section lead planner for specific packages to a similar value.  
• Experience of developing programs suitable for the NEC form of contract.  
• Thorough knowledge of change management. 
• Proven experience in a similar role within a construction or civil engineering environment. 

• Passionate about doing the right thing in relation to people, places, and the planet. 
• Excellent working knowledge of relevant legislation. 
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to compose and explain issues concisely to different audiences. 
• Great interpersonal skills with the ability to guide, coach, and educate staff and trade partners at all levels. 
• Commitment to lifelong learning and continual professional development. 
• Act as a role model for more junior members of staff and to all Trade Contractors and offer support and guidance as required. 
• Understanding of construction technology and methods including steel structures, timber frames, concrete frames etc.  
• Experience in ready and accurately interpreting technical data such as drawings, specifications, and other construction information.   
• Talented user of Asta Powerproject.   
• Proficient in the use of IT (Microsoft Office) and mobile apps.  

We offer: 

• A hub where the brightest minds come together to create solutions that redefine our industry. We're committed to fostering an environment where every team member can thrive 
• Hybrid working (where role allows) 
• A salary that values your skills and experience 
• Training & development opportunities 
• 38 days annual leave (including 8 public holidays) 
• 6 annual Wellbeing days that can be taken for your personal wellbeing
• Your birthday off 
• Enhanced maternity/paternity leave 
• 6% employer pension contributions 
• 3 x salary Life Cover 
• In-house wellbeing & financial support 
• Charitable fundraising & dedicated volunteering days 
• Involvement in professional & industry organisations 
• Sports & socialising 

The position will require an element of travel to fulfil the requirements of the role, so having a full clean driving licence would be desirable.