Our client is seeking a commercially astute QS / Commercial Manager who has operated within small‑to‑medium residential developers or SMEs where they handle both pre‑ and post‑contract duties, typically across multi‑unit new‑build housing schemes. They must be comfortable managing the full commercial cycle independently.
Professional Background
* 7–12 years’ experience with small–medium housebuilders, self‑build developers, or design‑and‑build contractors.
* Strong experience producing and managing BOQs, tender packs, cost plans, valuations, subcontractor procurement, and contract administration.
* Capable of handling commercial oversight across multiple live projects (approx. three sites at any given time).
* Experience with both new‑build and refurbishment cost management.
* Core Responsibilities
* Preparing cost plans and budgets for 6–30 unit schemes.
* Leading procurement strategy — subcontractor packages, tender analysis, negotiation and award.
* Monthly valuations, cost reporting, CVRs, and forecasting.
* Managing variations, change control, and risk management.
* Ensuring robust commercial governance as the business scales.
* Working directly with directors on strategic costing and financial control.
Skills & Competencies
* Excellent negotiation skills with strong supplier/subcontractor relationships.
* Highly analytical with strong Excel/reporting capability.
* Ability to implement commercial processes and set up systems suited to an SME developer.
* Well‑networked in the residential subcontractor market.
* Strong understanding of JCT contracts (particularly D&B and minor works).
Personality
* Detail‑driven, structured, and financially disciplined.
* Enjoys working in a lean, entrepreneurial environment.
* Comfortable setting up new systems rather than inheriting corporate structures.
* Confident communicator who can challenge costs and drive value engineering.
Ideal Qualifications
* Degree in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management.
* RICS chartership desirable but not essential.
* Strong IT literacy (Excel, estimating software)