Contracts Manager – Highways (Civil Engineering)
North West England
Highways / Major Projects
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Operational Contracts Manager to lead the delivery of works across a live highways framework, managing multiple projects with individual values up to £15 million.
This is a hands-on, delivery-focused role overseeing live motorway and trunk road sites, including earthworks, drainage, structures, culverts, and associated highways infrastructure. You will take full responsibility for commercial performance, programme delivery, safety, and quality across a portfolio of schemes.
You will manage large on-site teams including Site Managers, Engineers, Supervisors, groundworkers, and machine operators, ensuring works are delivered safely, efficiently, and in line with client and framework requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Project & Operational Delivery
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Overall responsibility for the successful delivery of multiple live highway schemes across the framework
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Lead and manage site teams across several locations simultaneously
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Ensure works are delivered safely, on programme, within budget, and to the required quality standards
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Oversee construction activities including earthworks, drainage, culverts, structures, and associated civils works
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Act as senior operational presence on site, providing leadership and direction
Commercial & Contractual Management
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Full responsibility for contract performance and commercial outcomes
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Work closely with commercial teams on cost control, forecasting, variations, and final accounts
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Manage subcontractor performance and compliance with contractual obligations
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Ensure framework KPIs, reporting requirements, and governance are met
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Manage works on live motorway environments in line with National Highways / local authority requirements
Client & Stakeholder Management
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Act as main point of contact with the client, framework managers, and key stakeholders
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Attend progress meetings, coordinate with designers and supply chain partners
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Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients and internal teams
Leadership & Team Management
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Lead, mentor, and develop Site Managers, Engineers, and Supervisors
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Manage large direct labour and plant-heavy operations
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Ensure effective communication across all project teams
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
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Proven experience as a Contracts Manager or Senior Project Manager within civil engineering
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Strong background in highways and infrastructure projects
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Experience managing live motorway or trunk road sites
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Demonstrable experience delivering projects up to £15m
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Strong understanding of earthworks, drainage, and structures/culverts
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Excellent leadership and people management skills
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Commercially astute with strong contractual knowledge
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Full UK driving licence
Desirable
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SMSTS, CSCS (Black/Gold), Temporary Works knowledge
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Experience with National Highways or local authority clients
What We Offer
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Long-term, stable work on a secured highways framework
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Opportunity to lead major schemes with a respected civil engineering contractor
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Strong pipeline of work across the North West