Overview
Permanent position based in Hatfield (Hybrid working – 3 days in the office). Contract type: Permanent. Location: Hatfield (Hybrid working – 3 days in the office). Working hours per week: 40. Level: Lead. Application closing date: Friday 17th October 2025.
About Us
Our mission is to deliver joy in every shop, through unbeatable choice, unrivaled service, and reassuringly good value. We’re Ocado Retail, a market-leading joint venture between Ocado Group and M&S and the world’s largest dedicated online supermarket ocado.com. We’re also the brains behind Zoom by Ocado, our same-day grocery delivery service.
About The Team And The Role
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Construction Lead to oversee and lead various construction projects, including the development of new Customer Fulfilment Centres (CFCs) and spokes, as well as property improvements within the existing UK portfolio. The role involves strategic planning, budget management, and coordination with multiple stakeholders to enhance the capacity and efficiency of our property network. Ocado Retail is in a strong position to grow sales and profitability, and the Construction Lead will drive delivery of build projects to support this growth. You will interact with stakeholders across Ocado Retail (e.g., Network Development, Property, Legal, Finance, Operations) and Ocado Group (Solutions Development, Commercial, Construction Engineering). The ability to adapt your style and influence depending on the audience is crucial.
What You’ll Do
Procurement strategy and compliance
* Create procurement strategy and tender process for construction
* Own compliance and proficiency with CDM regulations
Budget Management
* Create and own the budget for all construction projects of between £1-100m
* Ensure projects are delivered on time and within the allocated budget
* Scrutinise and challenge the scope and costs of construction projects to ensure a strong return on investment
* Seek opportunities for cost savings without compromising quality
Project Delivery
* Coordinate and document user requirements, aligning them with project goals
* Manage the end-to-end delivery of construction projects, ensuring they meet user requirements and current regulations
* Manage dilapidation assessments and oversee the completion of dilapidations projects
Design and Planning
* Support the design process for new CFCs and spokes
* Work closely with property acquisition teams to support the property procurement process
* Liaise with planning consultants to meet all planning requirements
* Identify and organise necessary surveys for construction
Efficiency and Value Engineering
* Challenge the project scope to ensure requirements are identified and met while identifying cost-saving opportunities
* Identify value engineering opportunities and integrate them into the user requirements for build
* Seek and implement opportunities to increase the capacity and efficiency of the property network
Contract Management
* Take ownership of design and build contracts, ensuring they are executed effectively and efficiently
Who You Are
* Proven knowledge of different property procurement methods, including their various advantages and disadvantages
* Demonstrated experience in the delivery of multi-million-pound capex developments
* Experience of duty holding for meeting compliance obligations and proficiency with CDM regulations
* Preferred experience in building warehouses
* Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage and control large budgets
* Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
* Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget
* Ability to identify and implement cost-saving measures without compromising quality or the programme
* Strong negotiation and influencing skills
* Problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to challenges
* Detail-oriented with strong organisational and multitasking skills
* Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
* Leadership skills with experience managing teams and coordinating with various departments, contractors and professional teams
* Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera)
* Strong understanding of construction methodologies, materials, and legal regulations
* Ability to read and interpret architectural and engineering plans
Qualifications
* Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field. A Master’s degree or additional certifications in project management is a plus
* Professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional), CCM (Certified Construction Manager), or similar credentials are highly desirable
What’s In It For You
By joining Ocado Retail you’ll have the chance to experience life at the world’s largest online retailer, work with an amazing team, and grow your skills and career in online retail. You’ll also get access to a range of benefits, including:
* Health & Wellbeing: Private medical insurance with options for family, Digital GP, mental health support, dental, and more
* Spend & Save: Annual bonus scheme based on personal and business objectives, rewards, up to 7% matched pension contributions, 15% Ocado discount, 20% M&S discount, free breakfast in the office, and other benefits
* Never miss the moments that matter: Blended/Hybrid working, 26 days holiday plus 8 bank holidays, option to buy extra holiday, 2 weeks work from anywhere, lifestyle breaks
Our Hiring Process
We treat all applications respectfully and fairly. If your application stands out, you’ll follow our standard hiring process, with an initial call from a Talent Partner.
Equal Opportunities
We’re an equal opportunities employer. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know on the application form.
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