Programme Manager

Company Description

About Infrastructure

SOCOTEC’s Infrastructure team delivers essential technical services that ensure the safety, quality and compliance of major construction and civil engineering projects across the UK. Our services include ground investigation, materials testing, foundation and pile testing, structural assessments and geotechnical monitoring.

Using industry-leading expertise and technology, we help clients manage risk, improve performance and deliver safer, more resilient infrastructure.

What's in it for you?

Your expertise deserves recognition. Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package including 25 days holiday (with the option to buy more), an electric car scheme (where applicable), employee recognition programmes, family-friendly support, exclusive retail discounts, employee assistance programmes, and an enhanced company pension. SOCOTEC UK & Ireland are proud to be Disability Confident accredited.

Job Description

The Ground Investigation Programme Manager will be responsible for delivering allocated projects safely, efficiently and profitably, whilst supporting the Business Unit Director in improving operational performance and project delivery standards.

The role will also support the management and development of Senior Project Managers, providing oversight of project performance, resource planning, financial controls and delivery risks across designated portfolios.

Qualifications

This role requires strong commercial acumen, effective leadership and the ability to drive operational excellence, develop people and maintain excellent client relationships.

Essential

- Proven experience managing complex ground investigation, infrastructure or comparable technical projects.
- Strong commercial and financial management skills, including forecasting, cost control, margin management and cash performance.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, resources and competing priorities.
- Experience leading, coaching and developing Project Managers or experienced delivery teams.
- Strong understanding of project delivery, contractual requirements, risk management and HSEQ.
- Excellent communication, client relationship management and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to challenge performance, implement improvements and drive accountability.

Desirable

- Relevant degree, project management qualification or equivalent industry experience.
- Knowledge of ground investigation techniques, drilling, in situ testing and technical reporting.
- Experience working with NEC, ICE or similar construction contracts.
- Experience managing subcontractors and supporting business improvement initiatives.
- Relevant professional membership or chartered status.

Personal Attributes

- Commercially focused and results-driven.
- Strong leader who develops people and holds teams accountable.
- Strategic thinker with excellent organisational and analytical skills.
- Collaborative and able to influence across departments.
- Proactive, adaptable and solutions-focused.
- Committed to safety, quality, operational excellence and client satisfaction.

Additional Information

Why SOCOTEC?

Join a thriving community of over 2,000 industry professionals who are passionate about making a real difference. At SOCOTEC UK, we're not just delivering services - we're shaping the future of testing, inspection, and certification across the nation.

What sets us apart? Our people. We've built our reputation on attracting exceptional talent like you and empowering them to deliver excellence at every turn. Our comprehensive range of TIC services means you'll have the opportunity to work on diverse, challenging projects that truly matter.

In this role, you won't just be another employee - you'll be a key player in our continued success story. Your expertise will directly contribute to our mission of building a safer, more sustainable world, while you grow your career alongside some of the industry's finest professionals.

Your Career, Your Way

Build a traditional career path or explore opportunities across multiple disciplines - all within SOCOTEC. Your choice, your direction.

Work Your Way

Local, national, or global projects. Office-based, remote, or hybrid. We offer the flexibility that empowers you to perform at your best.

Committed to Your Growth

From day one, you'll have access to comprehensive training, mentorship, and development programs. We support every step of your professional journey. #YouGrowWeGrow

Think you've got what it takes to add value to our success? We would love to hear from you and look forward to receiving your application.

Building a safer and more sustainable world is the core mission we set out to achieve at SOCOTEC, it is at the heart of everything that we do. We are committed to acting as a key player in society, investing in innovative solutions to ensure social and environmental concerns are at the forefront of all of our business operations.