Overview

Position status: This opportunity is for a secured role that is due to commence in September subject to approval. If you would like to be considered as we progress with this position, please click to apply.

At Mace, our purpose is to redefine the boundaries of ambition. We believe in creating places that are responsible, bringing transformative impact to our people, communities and societies across the globe. To learn more about our purpose, culture, and priorities, visit our strategy site.

Within our consult and construct business, we harness our unique combination of leading-edge practical expertise and project delivery consultancy to unlock the potential in every project.

The project

Mace has been appointed by the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) as its Programme Delivery Partner for the Science Capability in Animal Health (SCAH) programme. Under the partnership, Mace will oversee the delivery of a state-of-the-art centre at the heart of the Animal and Plant Health Agency’s (APHA) campus in Surrey; a facility already recognised for leading the way in research into animal welfare and resilience to animal-borne disease. As the Programme Delivery Partner, across an initial five-year period, Mace will provide a full suite of project and programme management services, as well as PMO and planning, cost and commercial management and business advisory capabilities. The Mace team will be responsible for identifying and implementing innovative solutions such as modern methods of construction (MMC) and digital command centres, developing tailored contracting strategies and advising on delivery requirements such as constructability and logistics.

Manages and/or leads the implementation and delivery of a range of PMO and Project Controls to support commissions. Leads and guides team members within the PMO and Planning Centre of Excellence and assigned Hub as required.

Values and culture

Our values shape the way we consult, and define the people we want to join us on our journey:

• Safety first - Going home safe and well
• Client focus - Deliver on our promise
• Integrity - Always do the right thing
• Create opportunity - For our people to excel

Role and responsibilities

As a Project Controls Manager, you will be part of a high-performing team responsible for integrating scope, schedule, cost, and risk into a unified report of performance metrics. You will directly support the delivery of a DEFRA programme strengthening UK biosecurity and protecting both human and animal health.

This role is Hybrid and required 3 days/week in Greater London offices.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Collaborate with delivery teams to ensure robust controls metrics and align with drumbeat cycles and client expectations.
• Facilitate monthly project performance review meetings including minutes and follow-up actions.
• Ensure that reporting processes support decision-making, stakeholder confidence, and a culture of “no surprises” throughout project delivery.
• Facilitate integration of controls activities across the programme, supporting compliance, risk management, and milestone tracking.
• Monitor and report performance metrics across schedule, cost, and risk domains using tools such as Primavera P6, Aconex and ARM.
• Support the change process including reviewing submissions, decision follow-ups, implementing changes and updating the Master Change Register.

Requirements

• Strong analytical and problem-solving.
• Ability to work in a matrix organisation and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in supporting PMO functions and contributing to organisational transformation.

Employer notes

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all of the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.

We are also open to discussing part-time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable within the role.

Additional information

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