Populous
Project Manager - Design Management Group
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About Populous
For more than 40 years Populous has had a singular focus – to draw people together around the things that they love, to be the leading design firm that specialises in places, spaces and events where people gather. Our success is defined by designing projects that are seen as the benchmark. We are committed to future innovation, anticipating and shaping the future of our industries.
Our team is made up of highly talented people with a range of skills, all integral to successfully bringing to life the places and experiences we design. As our company has grown, our expertise has expanded to encompass a wide variety of disciplines – including architecture, audiovisual consultancy, brand activation, design & build, events, food & beverage strategy, interior design, landscape architecture, urban design and wayfinding.
This varied expertise enables us to transform neighbourhoods, revitalise cities, build relationships and create buildings, places and spaces that draw people together, from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to The Co-op Live Arena.
As we continue to bring to life award-winning venues and experiences our EMEA Practice is looking for a Project Manager based in our Putney studio.
About The Role
We are seeking a proactive, commercially aware, and data-driven Project Manager to oversee a regional portfolio of complex design and delivery projects across the EMEA Practice, with a particular focus on the Middle East portfolio.
This role sits at the centre of regional project performance and strategic delivery, partnering closely with senior leadership to drive operational excellence, informed decision-making, and successful project outcomes across some of the industry’s most high-profile and technically complex projects within the Middle East region.
The role has a strong emphasis on portfolio governance, financial performance, resource planning, analytics, and leadership reporting, supporting the successful delivery of projects across multiple disciplines, clients, and geographies throughout the ME portfolio.
You will lead and support pursuit and project start-up processes, oversee governance and compliance requirements, manage financial and operational performance, and help drive consistency in project delivery standards across the portfolio.
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Using platforms such as Power BI and Deltek, you will develop meaningful reporting dashboards, generate actionable insights, and translate complex project data into clear narratives for leadership teams, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities.
This is an opportunity to play a key role within a growing EMEA practice, contributing to the successful delivery and governance of globally recognised projects across the Middle East while helping shape the future of project performance and operational excellence within Populous.
Key responsibilities include:
Portfolio & Project Governance
Manage the pursuit portfolio, tracking opportunities and facilitating smooth project wins through to start. Ensure governance structures are in place, including contracts, billing, compliance, and contractual documentation. Oversee project initiation, governance checkpoints, and project close outs.
Performance & Financial Oversight
Monitor project performance across programme, schedule and cost Track labour across all service lines, direct and reimbursable expenses, supply chain costs and sub-consultant spend Lead invoicing processes and actively monitor aged receivables to support financial health Maintain and analyse resource plans to support efficient and sustainable project delivery
Reporting & Analytics
Use Power BI and Deltek to develop dashboards, track performance and generate actionable insights Translate data into clear narratives for senior leadership, highlighting risks, trends and opportunities Deliver regular portfolio performance reports to support strategic decision making
Quality & Compliance
Conduct internal audits and support compliance with ISO 9001 and other organisational business standards. Drive continuous improvement in project management practices and quality controls.
Stakeholder Management
Collaborate effectively with project teams, design leads, consultants, clients, and operational stakeholders. Act as a reliable point of contact for senior leadership on portfolio performance and risks.
Key requirements include:
Proven experience in project portfolio management within complex, multidisciplinary environments. Strong data and insight driven mindset, adept at using analytical platforms such as Power BI and Deltek. Demonstrated ability to manage project governance, contracts, billing, financial monitoring, and reporting. Experience managing pursuit processes and the transition into project execution. Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality standards and audit practices. Excellent communicator with the ability to present performance insights to executive leadership. Ability to work with multiple stakeholders across functions and regions. Analytical and detail oriented Strategic thinker with excellent organisational skills Collaborative with strong interpersonal skills Proactive problem solver focused on delivering results
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You will thrive in this role if you are:
Commercially aware and analytically minded Confident operating across multiple stakeholders and regions Comfortable communicating with senior leadership teams Passionate about improving project performance and delivery standards Proactive, organised, and solutions-focused
About The Studio
Our Putney studio, which is also our EMEA Headquarters, is located on the banks of the River Thames, a short walk from Putney High Street and with excellent travel connections. Our employees enjoy a comprehensive and competitive benefits programme, as well as the opportunity to attend events at several Populous-designed venues.
Why Join the Team?
Work alongside passionate, creative individuals who lead their industry, transform ideas into reality and celebrate the beauty of human connection Enjoy various benefits, such as hybrid working and gym membership discounts Enjoy the opportunity to attend events at Populous-designed venues Connect and learn at regular social and knowledge sharing events including an annual conference and a weekend abroad Christmas party
How To Apply
Populous is an equal opportunity employer. If you’re ready to utilise your skills to support our growing practice, click “Apply” to begin the application process. In your application, please include your CV and a one-page letter of motivation (cover letter), salary expectations, and availability.
Want to learn more about us?
Find us here: Populous
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