Senior Associate Project Manager

Senior Associate Project Manager | Ocado Intelligent Automation | Hatfield | Hybrid (2 days office)

About Us:

Ocado OIA (Ocado Intelligent Automation) is a division within Ocado Technology that focuses on developing advanced automation and robotics systems for Ocado's smart warehouses and fulfilment centres. This unit creates solutions that automate logistical tasks, including order picking, packing, and inventory management, leveraging robotics, AI, and machine learning to optimise these processes.

OIA’s technology is integral to Ocado's strategy of licensing its logistics and fulfilment solutions to other retailers worldwide, helping them build automated, efficient, and scalable online grocery operations.

About the Role:

We are seeking a Senior Associate Project Manager to lead client implementation projects within Ocado Intelligent Automation. This role is critical to the successful delivery of cutting-edge automation solutions and will involve managing complex programmes, influencing senior stakeholders, and driving continuous improvement. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the planning, design, and execution of client implementation projects, ensuring alignment with cost, timelines, scope, and safety objectives.
• Building and managing robust relationships with stakeholders, customers, and multidisciplinary teams at all levels.
• Taking ownership of high-level workstream coordination, ensuring accountability across teams and delivering against agreed milestones.
• Overseeing and validating programme budgets in collaboration with the finance team, ensuring financial accuracy and reporting.
• Driving strategic change management initiatives, securing alignment on site enhancements and deviations while mitigating risks.
• Managing project/site design approvals, championing best practices and compliance standards.
• Resolving escalated issues, providing guidance to internal and external stakeholders, and fostering cross-functional collaboration.
• Delivering detailed and impactful project reporting for senior executives and clients, with a focus on risks, progress, and key outcomes.
• Leading the project team to achieve objectives, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Ensuring adherence to the Ocado Project Methodology while identifying opportunities for innovation and enhancement.

What We're Looking For:

• Significant project management experience, ideally within a similar or transferable industry.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and mentor teams across complex project environments.
• Expertise in building and executing comprehensive project schedules and budgets, ensuring timely and on-budget delivery.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with a proven ability to influence senior-level decisions.
• Strong problem-solving abilities, with a focus on proactive risk management and conflict resolution.
• Demonstrated success in managing high-profile projects to target and budget while navigating evolving priorities.
• Experience with change management processes, particularly in technical or large-scale operational contexts.
• Advanced skill in creating and delivering reports tailored to executive, client, and internal audiences.
• Familiarity with PPM tools and methodologies, coupled with strong proficiency in MS Office and Google Workspace.
• A strategic mindset, with a track record of driving process improvements and delivering results in high-pressure environments.

What Do I Get in Return?

• Hybrid working model (2 days in the office).
• Remote working for the month of August and 50% of December.
• 25 days annual leave, rising to 27 days after 5 years of service (plus optional holiday purchase).
• Pension scheme, with employer contribution matching up to 7%.
• Private Medical Insurance.
• 22 weeks paid maternity leave and 6 weeks paid paternity leave (once relevant service requirements are met).
• Interest-free Train Ticket loan.
• Cycle to Work Scheme.
• Participation in Share Save and Buy as You Earn share schemes.
• 15% discount on Ocado.com and free delivery for all employees.
• Income Protection (up to 50% of salary for 3 years) and Life Assurance (3 x annual salary).
• Free shuttle bus to and from Hatfield Train Station to the Hatfield HQ offices.

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