Operations / Construction / Contracts Manager
Main Contractor – Surrey
Permanent | Full Time | Office & Site Based
A privately-owned main contractor based in Surrey is seeking an experienced Operations / Construction / Contracts Manager to join their growing business.
Operating for over 7 years, they deliver a range of projects across the South East with typical values of £3–£5 million, running 2–3 live projects at any given time.
This role sits directly beneath the Managing Director and Group Chairman, offering a genuine opportunity for progression through to Associate Director within 18 months, and Director/Shareholder status within 3 years for the right individual.
The Business
The company undertakes a diverse portfolio of works including:
* Hotels & apartment schemes
* New build houses
* Commercial office fit-out
* Full turnkey projects from demolition through to handover
They are a hands-on, delivery-focused contractor with a commitment to quality, safety, and exceptional project management.
The Role
This is a key operational role within the business. The successful candidate will lead the day-to-day running of multiple sites, ensuring projects are delivered:
* On time
* Safely
* To specification and quality standards
* Profitably
You will be a visible presence across sites, supporting project teams, managing subcontractors, monitoring installation quality, and ensuring testing, sign-off and documentation processes are followed correctly.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage and oversee live construction projects across the South East
* Ensure programme, quality, safety and commercial targets are achieved
* Provide strong leadership to site teams and subcontractors
* Monitor build quality, installation standards and technical compliance
* Attend and chair project meetings, progress reviews and client interactions
* Maintain strict compliance with Health & Safety requirements (SMSTS essential)
* Travel between sites to support teams and resolve issues swiftly
* Represent the business professionally with clients, stakeholders, and suppliers
Person Profile
This role will suit someone who is:
* Highly disciplined, punctual and organised
* Strong in man-management and subcontractor control
* Confident, assertive and client-facing
* Hands-on, site-focused and detail-driven
* Passionate about delivering great buildings
Experience & Qualifications
* Trade background with relevant qualifications
* SMSTS certified
* Proven track record in a similar role within a main contractor
* Demonstrable experience delivering £3-£5m projects
* Comfortable managing multiple live sites
* Ideally located central to the M25
Energy, drive and commitment to the role will be essential, with a genuine desire to take ownership and grow within the business.
Package
* Competitive salary + expenses
* Clear progression pathway to Associate Director & Director/Shareholder
* Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and shape the future of the business