Project Director – Education (DfE Frameworks)

Shape the future of learning environments.

We’re looking for a senior construction leader to drive the delivery of Department for Education (DfE) programmes and school building projects across the UK. This is a high-profile opportunity to lead a specialist team delivering new builds, refurbishments, and complex expansions that directly impact the next generation.

Why this role?

• National significance: Lead projects that transform schools, academies, and learning environments within a priority government sector.
• Complex, meaningful delivery: Work on high-value, multi-site programmes that demand technical excellence, compliance, and innovation.
• Clear leadership path: Influence both client outcomes and business growth, with the autonomy to shape the strategy and expand the education sector team.

What you’ll lead

• Full lifecycle project and programme leadership — from feasibility, design management, and planning approvals through procurement, construction, and handover.
• Oversight of DfE frameworks, funding requirements, and governance — ensuring all projects align with compliance standards and value-for-money objectives.
• Strategic cost and programme management, applying robust controls and reporting to deliver predictable outcomes.
• Stakeholder engagement across DfE, local authorities, schools, contractors, design teams, and wider communities.
• Procurement strategy and contract management (NEC, JCT, and framework agreements) with a focus on performance and accountability.
• Team leadership: coaching and developing a high-performing consultancy team, fostering collaboration and excellence.

What you’ll bring

• Degree (or equivalent) in Project Management, QS, Construction, or related discipline.
• Proven track record in leading education projects, ideally with experience on DfE frameworks, academy trusts, or major public-sector programmes.
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of public-sector funding, procurement, and governance processes.
• Experience in complex stakeholder environments, balancing the needs of government bodies, schools, and communities.
• A collaborative, solutions-focused leadership style with excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• A passion for delivering sustainable, inspiring learning environments that improve outcomes for children and communities.

The offer

• £80,000–£110,000 + benefits (DOE)
• Career-defining opportunity to lead a nationally significant sector.
• A platform to grow both a team and a portfolio of high-impact education projects across the UK.

Confidential enquiries: Caroline Kingsley 
M: 07768 381831 
E: caroline@kingsleyrecruitment.co.uk
C: Arrange a call: Book a 15-min call

All conversations are handled in strict confidence.