Commercial Project Manager (Bury St Edmunds, GB)

Opportunity Review: Commercial Project Manager - Major Connections

This Commercial Project Manager role presents a compelling opportunity for experienced professionals seeking to lead significant infrastructure projects within the dynamic energy sector. Based in Bury St Edmunds, this permanent position offers a competitive salary and a structured career path within the Major Connections team.

Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• Attractive Remuneration: A substantial starting salary of £80,574, complemented by a 3% bonus, reflects the importance and responsibility of this role.
• Work-Life Balance: The provision for blended working after a 6-month probationary period (3 days in the office, 2 remote) offers flexibility and supports a healthy work-life integration.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Beyond the base salary, candidates will benefit from a generous annual leave allowance (25 days + bank holidays), reservist leave, private medical cover, a robust personal pension plan with significant employer contributions, and a range of tax-efficient schemes (Cycle to Work, Home & Tech, Green Car Leasing). Additional perks include a tenancy loan deposit scheme, season ticket loan, occupational health support, and employee discount and assistance programs.
• Impactful Project Portfolio: You will be instrumental in managing major infrastructure projects across the UK Power Networks (UKPN) across all three networks, with an initial focus on the EPN area. The scope of work involves crucial clients such as National Grid, National Highways, Network Rail, and HS2, tackling complex diversions and new supply provisions for significant development.
• End-to-End Project Ownership: This role offers the chance to manage projects through their entire lifecycle, from initial enquiry and quotation to delivery and post-investment appraisal. This end-to-end responsibility provides a deep sense of accomplishment and professional growth.
• Strategic Engagement: The position involves active collaboration with a wide array of internal departments (Asset Management, Marketing, Finance, Legal, Regulation) and external stakeholders, including government offices and major clients. This cross-functional interaction is invaluable for broadening your understanding of the industry and enhancing your strategic thinking.
• Professional Development: The emphasis on managing projects in line with regulatory compliance (licence conditions, charging methodologies) and industry standards (CDM) will sharpen your commercial and technical acumen. The opportunity to present to external clients and senior management will hone your communication and leadership skills.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Technical Foundation: A degree-level qualification (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, coupled with relevant project management experience in the electrical industry and distribution networks, is essential. Familiarity with network analysis and design processes (e.g., Netmap) will be highly beneficial.
• Commercial Acumen: While a formal qualification in Project Governance and Control is advantageous, a strong commercial awareness is paramount. This role requires a keen understanding of financial control and the delivery of planned Gross Margins.
• Network Knowledge: While not strictly mandatory, an understanding of LV, HV, and EHV networks within one or more of the UKPN footprints would be a significant asset, enabling you to hit the ground running.
• Customer-Centric Approach: The description explicitly highlights the importance of a "can do" and customer-friendly attitude, with a drive to exceed expectations. Candidates who thrive on client engagement and problem-solving will be well-suited.
• Health & Safety Responsibility: As a manager, you will have significant legal and company responsibilities for ensuring the health and safety of your team and those affected by the work. A proactive approach to safety management and environmental stewardship is expected.
• Regulatory Environment: You will need to be adept at navigating and ensuring compliance with various regulatory frameworks, including Licence conditions, Connection Charging Methodology, and New Road and Street Works Act.

This Commercial Project Manager role is an excellent prospect for individuals looking to advance their careers in project management within a critical infrastructure sector. The combination of challenging projects, a supportive work environment, and a comprehensive benefits package makes this a highly attractive opportunity for ambitious professionals.