Project Manager

Project Manager - Education Sector (Freelance / No.1 Lead) | Essex / East Anglia We are currently seeking an experienced Freelance Project Manager (Number 1 Lead) to take full responsibility for the delivery of education sector projects with a leading UK main contractor across Essex and East Anglia. This is a senior, site-based role requiring a strong leader who can take ownership of both pre-construction and on-site delivery, acting as the key decision-maker and client-facing lead throughout the project lifecycle. 🔹 Project Overview Sector: Education (schools - new build & refurbishment) Location: Essex / East Anglia region Project values: £5m - £50m+ Role: Freelance / Contract - No.1 Project Lead Environment: Live school sites, phased delivery, term-time constraints Key Responsibilities Act as Number 1 Project Lead, taking full responsibility for project delivery from pre-construction through to handover Lead and manage all pre-construction activities, including planning, programming, design coordination, procurement strategy, and buildability input Oversee full site delivery including subcontractor management, site teams, and supply chain coordination Act as the main client-facing representative, managing relationships with education authorities, consultants, and stakeholders Develop, maintain, and drive project programmes to ensure key milestones and deadlines are achieved Take ownership of health & safety, particularly within live school environments and safeguarding requirements Oversee commercial awareness in coordination with QS/commercial teams, including cost tracking and reporting Manage technical coordination, design development, and resolution of site issues Ensure high-quality delivery in line with DfE standards, local authority requirements, and project specifications Lead progress meetings, reporting, and full project communication strategy Candidate Requirements Proven experience delivering education sector projects (schools essential) Strong background as a Number 1 Project Manager / Senior Project Manager for main contractors Demonstrable experience in pre-construction management and project planning Confident working in live environments with phased delivery and stakeholder coordination Strong leadership, communication, and client-facing ability Excellent understanding of programme management, H&S compliance, and quality assurance SMSTS, CSCS (Black or equivalent), and First Aid certification required What's on Offer Freelance contract with immediate or short notice start Opportunity to lead high-profile education projects as Number 1 on site Strong pipeline of future education schemes in the region Competitive day rate (DOE)This role is ideal for an experienced Project Manager with strong pre-construction and education sector experience, who is confident taking full ownership of complex school projects from early planning through to successful delivery