Planning Specialist

Role Overview The Planning Specialist is responsible for developing, maintaining, and monitoring project schedules across the real estate development portfolio. Operating within the central Projects team, the role ensures effective planning, coordination, and control of project timelines from design through to construction and handover. The Planning Specialist works closely with Project Managers, Procurement & Tendering, and Contracts teams to ensure alignment between schedules, procurement strategies, and contractual obligations, enabling timely and efficient project delivery Key Responsibilities: 1. Project Planning & Scheduling Develop detailed project schedules (baseline, master, and detailed schedules) covering all phases: design, procurement, construction, and handover Define project work breakdown structures (WBS) and sequencing of activities Ensure integration of design, procurement, and construction timelines into unified project schedules Establish milestones, critical paths, and resource-loaded schedules 2. Schedule Monitoring & Control Track project progress against approved baseline schedules Conduct regular schedule updates and progress analysis Identify delays, deviations, and risks impacting timelines Perform critical path analysis and recommend mitigation or recovery plans Prepare “what-if” scenarios and time impact assessments 3. Coordination with Central Functions Collaborate with Procurement & Tendering Specialist to align procurement timelines with project schedules Coordinate with Contracts Specialist to ensure contractual milestones and obligations are reflected in schedules Support alignment between tender programs, contractor schedules, and internal project timelines 4. Reporting & Stakeholder Communication Prepare periodic planning reports (weekly, monthly, executive dashboards) Provide schedule performance indicators (SPI, delays, float analysis, etc.) Present planning updates to senior management and project stakeholders Maintain centralized reporting standards across all projects 5. Risk & Delay Analysis Identify schedule-related risks and propose mitigation strategies Conduct delay analysis (EOT support, forensic schedule reviews if required) Support claims evaluation in coordination with Contracts team 6. Systems & Process Improvement Maintain and enhance planning standards, templates, and procedures across projects Ensure consistency in scheduling methodologies across the portfolio Utilize planning software effectively (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) Support implementation of project controls best practices Qualifications & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field Minimum 5+ years of experience in project planning within real estate development or construction Strong experience in end-to-end project lifecycle planning (design to handover) Experience working in developer/client-side environment is highly preferred Key Competencies Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Excellent understanding of construction sequencing and methodologies Ability to interpret contracts and procurement processes High attention to detail and accuracy Strong communication and stakeholder management skills Ability to work within a centralized, multi-project environment