Senior Project Manager

Global University Systems (GUS) is an international education group that empowers students to transform their lives through education. We believe education drives careers, lives, and society forward, enabling a brighter and more sustainable future for all. Our institutions offer the broadest range of industry-relevant skills through inclusive, accessible and digital-first learning. We offer a choice of career-enhancing certificates, degrees and post-graduate level qualifications, equipping our thriving multi-national community of students for lifelong success. Our world-leading network and state-of-the-art institutions power the upskilling of our students worldwide.

The Senior Project Manager will lead the delivery of capital projects across a diverse higher‑education estate, covering refurbishments, fit‑outs, new space development, and strategic property acquisitions. The role requires strong technical capability across construction and mechanical & electrical (M&E) systems, ensuring projects are safe, compliant, efficient, and aligned with institutional growth plans. The postholder will manage projects from feasibility and test fits through procurement, delivery, commissioning, and handover.

Summary of role:

• Lead the end‑to‑end delivery of capital projects (refurbishments, new builds, specialist spaces), with full oversight of M&E systems (HVAC, electrical, fire, BMS, data and energy solutions).

• Manage design coordination, commissioning, and handover, ensuring compliance, quality, sustainability, and operational readiness.

• Support property acquisitions, undertaking technical due diligence, feasibility assessments, and advising on building services and risk.

• Oversee procurement and contract management, including tendering, supplier selection, and delivery against JCT/NEC frameworks.

• Act as a key stakeholder interface, providing programme reporting, financial tracking, and risk management while ensuring alignment to strategic and operational objectives.

• Drive compliance, safety, and sustainability best practice, maintaining robust documentation and asset data throughout the project lifecycle.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Proven experience delivering capital projects, refurbishments, and fit‑outs with significant M&E components.

• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, building services design, and statutory compliance.

• Experience managing commissioning, testing, and handover of M&E systems.

• Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and reports.

• Demonstrable procurement and contract management experience.

• Strong financial and programme management skills.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Desirable

• Experience in higher education, public sector, or complex multi‑site estates.

• Professional qualification (e.g., CIBSE, IMechE, IET, RICS, CIOB, APM) or working towards one.

• Knowledge of sustainability frameworks, energy‑efficient design, and net‑zero strategies.

What we offer:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays - time to rest, recharge, and balance life beyond work.

• Hybrid working - most roles offer hybrid or flexible arrangements to support work-life balance.

• Contributory Pension Scheme - 5% personal contribution & 3% Company contribution, so you can build long-term financial security with added benefits of the company contributions.

• Private Medical Insurance (T&C's apply) - prioritising your wellbeing with speedy access to healthcare whenever you need support.

• Season Ticket Loan (T&C's apply) - spread the cost of your commute with an interest-free travel loan.

• Eye Care Vouchers - support for regular eye tests and essential eyewear. 

• Training & Development opportunities (T&C's apply) - access to short courses via FutureLearn and Group-wide professional development programmes.

• Staff Discount Scheme - via My Rewards Hub, from various retailers – Fashion, Grocery, Health & Beauty, Travel, Automotive, Furniture, Dining, Sports and Leisure, Electronics, etc

• Employee Assistance Programme - confidential support for your wellbeing, whenever you need it.

• Refer a Friend Scheme for staff members (T&C's apply) - earn rewards for helping us bring great talent into the team

If you feel this is the role you are looking for, please click below to apply for the role! 

We will screen all applicants and select candidates whose qualifications meet our requirements. We will carefully consider your application during the initial screening and will contact you if you are selected to continue for the next stage of the recruitment process. We wish you every success in your job search.

GUS is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, or religion or belief.

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