Externals Manager – Tier 2 Main Contractor
Reading Area | £50m Later Living Development
A well-established Tier 2 Main Contractor is looking to appoint an experienced Externals Manager to join a flagship £50m Later Living development based near Reading.
This is a site-based role overseeing the full external envelope package across a large-scale RC frame residential scheme. The successful candidate will play a key role in managing façade works from pre-construction coordination through to delivery and handover.
The project consists of multiple blocks and requires someone confident managing several façade subcontractors simultaneously, ensuring programme, quality, and safety standards are maintained throughout.
Key Responsibilities:
* Oversee day-to-day delivery of all external envelope works
* Manage façade subcontractors across multiple work fronts
* Chair external works meetings and drive programme performance
* Coordinate with design, commercial, logistics, and site delivery teams
* Monitor quality assurance processes including photographic records and inspections
* Ensure labour, materials, and sequencing are aligned with programme requirements
* Review and interrogate contractor and subcontractor programmes
* Liaise with Building Control, warranty providers, and consultant teams
* Ensure health & safety standards and site housekeeping are maintained
* Produce look-ahead programmes, progress updates, and meeting minutes
Key Requirements:
* Strong background working for reputable Main Contractors is essential
* Experience delivering large-scale residential schemes
* Previous exposure to RC frame construction
* Strong knowledge of SFS and window installation packages is essential
* Confident managing multiple subcontractors and challenging programme performance
* Excellent communication and coordination skills
* Strong understanding of façade sequencing, QA, and site logistics
* Commercial awareness and ability to work closely with operational teams
* Permanent experience preferred — freelance backgrounds are not desired
The Ideal Candidate:
This role would suit a strong, hands-on construction professional with solid externals/envelope management experience who is comfortable operating within demanding, fast-paced residential environments. The business is looking for someone career-minded who can integrate into the team long-term and take ownership of the package from start to finish.
Package:
* Competitive salary DOE
* Pension contribution
* Life assurance
* Income protection
* Cycle to work scheme
* Long-term opportunity with a growing Main Contractor