Planning Manager
Planning Manager
Location: St Ives, CambridgeshireHours: 8am–5pm, Monday to Friday (flexibility required during peak project periods)Salary: Competitive + opportunity to work on world-class events and projects
We’re looking for a highly organised, proactive Planning Manager to join our Operations team. This is a key role responsible for coordinating resources, equipment, logistics, and delivery planning to ensure our projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and within budget.
Working closely with Projects, Site Operations, Warehouse, and HSEQ teams, you'll play a vital role in the successful delivery of temporary structures and event infrastructure across some of the most exciting projects Arena delivers.
What You'll Do
Plan and coordinate operational requirements for allocated projects from initial handover through to completion
Review project information and identify potential operational risks or resource challenges early
Manage equipment bookings and stock allocation to support project delivery
Use Navision and planning systems to monitor and update project information
Ensure equipment availability across build, event, and dismantle periods
Coordinate stock movements between sites to maximise efficiency and minimise external hire costs
Liaise with Project Managers, Construction Teams, Site Operations, and Warehouse teams to resolve planning challenges
Create detailed loading schedules and logistics plans to support project delivery
Monitor stock anomalies and identify potential additional costs or resource requirements
Work closely with engineering and construction teams to ensure the correct ballast, fixings, and equipment are supplied
Assume responsibility for the operational planning aspects of assigned projects
Support safe working practices and ensure operational activities align with Arena's health and safety standards
What You'll Bring
Experience planning temporary structures, events, construction projects, or similar operational environments
Strong logistics, resource planning, or warehouse planning experience
Ability to read and interpret technical and layout drawings
Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
A proactive, solutions-focused approach to problem solving
Intermediate Microsoft Office skills
Full UK Driving Licence
Previous experience with temporary structures or site operations would be advantageous
What Success Looks Like
Consistently delivering projects with the right equipment, resources, and logistics plans in place
Identifying and resolving planning issues before they impact site operations
Building strong relationships across Projects, Operations, Warehousing, and Site Teams
Maintaining excellent attention to detail while managing multiple priorities
Supporting efficient, safe, and cost-effective project delivery
If you enjoy solving complex logistical challenges, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and want to play a key role in delivering exceptional projects, we'd love to hear from you!