Senior Planner

Role Overview

WSP is seeking a Senior Planner to join a major roads and highways construction project based in Riyadh.

Role Purpose

Lead planning and scheduling activities for projects within the organization, working closely with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to develop comprehensive project plans, establish timelines, allocate resources, and monitor progress. Provide guidance and mentorship to junior planners and contribute to continuous improvement of planning processes and methodologies.

Key Responsibilities

Project Planning

• Lead the development of project plans, including scope definition, work breakdown structure, schedule, and resource allocation, in collaboration with project teams.

Scheduling

• Develop and maintain project schedules using project management software, ensuring alignment with project objectives and milestones.

Resource Management

• Coordinate with resource managers to allocate resources effectively and optimize resource utilization across multiple projects.

Risk Assessment

• Identify potential risks and constraints that may impact project timelines or budgets, and develop mitigation strategies to address them.

Progress Monitoring

• Monitor project progress against established schedules and milestones, and proactively identify and address deviations or delays.

Communication

• Communicate project status, risks, and issues to project teams, stakeholders, and senior management through regular reports and presentations.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to gather input, resolve conflicts, and ensure alignment of project plans with organizational goals.

Quality Assurance

• Ensure that project plans adhere to quality standards, best practices, and regulatory requirements.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve planning processes, tools, and methodologies, and lead initiatives to implement enhancements.

Mentorship and Training

• Provide guidance, mentorship, and training to junior planners to support their professional development and ensure consistency in planning practices across the organization.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, project management, construction management, or related field required; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum 20+ years of experience in project planning and scheduling, with demonstrated progression to senior roles.
• Experience working on similar roads and highways construction projects.
• Certification in project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) is desirable.

Skills & Competencies

• Proficiency in project management software such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar tools.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex project requirements and constraints.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Leadership qualities, including the ability to motivate teams, resolve conflicts, and drive results in a collaborative environment.
• Knowledge of project management best practices, methodologies, and tools.
• Familiarity with industry-specific regulations, standards, and practices related to project planning and scheduling.
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the field of project management.