Project Manager

Job Description

Why Southwark?

Southwark Council is the largest local authority social landlord in London, managing 55,000 homes lived in by 40% of Southwark’s residents. We are home to over 18,300 businesses including iconic London venues such as The Shard, The Tate Modern and Borough Market along with conservation areas, historic buildings, social enterprises and a young, diverse, and growing population.

At Southwark we are committed to making our borough just and fair and are taking positive action to tackle inequalities.?Our residents and communities are our greatest asset and the passion we have for Southwark is shared by millions of Londoners who enjoy our outstanding cultural offer, use our hospitals, and attend our universities. Our refreshed borough plan and focus on Southwark 2030 and Southwark Stands Together, underpins all that we do.

The role

We’re looking for a seasoned practitioner who can help us improve quality of life for our diverse communities through appropriate urban renewal. This is a fantastic opportunity to take ownership of meaningful redevelopment and community projects that deliver lasting value to Southwark’s residents. With a strong delivery focus, you’ll ensure due diligence is followed at every stage, while actively minimising the Council’s risk profile on major capital schemes.

This role involves managing complex build projects within existing communities and urban contexts, leading them from initial concept through to successful completion. You’ll draw up and maintain detailed project plans, manage budgets, commission and oversee professional teams and consultants, and ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to a high standard. You’ll also be responsible for identifying funding sources, coordinating with internal departments and external partners, and driving forward progress in line with strategic goals.

You’ll bring the leadership and drive to deliver projects to programme and on budget. The role requires the ability to negotiate effectively with key players in the industry and decision-making bodies, while also communicating clearly and coordinating a wide group of community stakeholders.

As Project Manager, you’ll play a central part in delivering the council’s vision of sustainable growth, bringing the benefits of redevelopment to the borough now and into the future, and making a tangible difference in a borough committed to fairness, inclusion, and innovation.

Key responsibilities:

Lead the end-to-end delivery of complex redevelopment and community projects, ensuring they’re completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
Develop and maintain robust project plans, managing risk, resources, and progress to drive successful outcomes.
Coordinate and collaborate with internal teams, consultants, and external partners to align delivery with strategic priorities.
Manage project finances, secure funding sources, and ensure full compliance with council procedures and policies.
Represent the council at stakeholder meetings, briefings, and high-level forums, providing expert advice and clear project updates.
Champion community engagement and ensure meaningful consultation to deliver inclusive and locally supported outcomes.
How will you make an impact as our Project Manager?

You’ll bring the expertise, insight, and drive to lead complex build projects within existing communities and urban contexts. Your qualifications and hands-on experience will help shape developments that deliver lasting value and align with Southwark’s vision for sustainable growth.

A relevant professional qualification in project management, construction, architecture, building surveying, or equivalent experience
In-depth understanding of the challenges facing urban redevelopment projects
Knowledge of contracts and delivery frameworks, including building contracts, service agreements, leases, licences and party wall matters
Proven experience managing construction projects through all key stages—from inception and planning to delivery and completion
Skilled in producing project documentation such as project initiation documents, programmes and updates
Experienced in delivering public consultation and working with diverse stakeholders in a way that embeds equality and inclusion
Excellent communication and influencing skills, with confidence engaging a wide range of audiences
Confident in managing financial resources efficiently and working within budget frameworks
Additional information

Employee benefits:

You’ll join a motivated, driven, and supportive team that values each of its members and strives for excellence. You’ll also be part of a successful, high-achieving development team making a real difference to the lives of residents across the borough. In return for all your hard work, skills and experience, you will receive:

A competitive base salary (pro rata for part time staff)
Strong supportive senior management team
Regular one to one supervision
Professional development & training opportunities
Clear career development pathways
Agile and flexible working arrangements
Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS)
Season ticket and cycle loans
Annual Leave starting at 29 days per year, increasing to 37 (with length of service) (pro rata for part time staff)
Wellbeing programme
HSF Health plan and eye care scheme
EAP employee assistance programme, confidential counselling and support
Social clubs and staff groups