Senior Contracts Manager
South Shields, North East UK (Head Office Location)
Full-time | Permanent
Security Clearance Required (SC Level)
Marine / Defence Sector
A leading organisation within the marine and defence industry is seeking an experienced Senior Contracts Manager to join their team at their Head Office in South Shields.
This is a key leadership role overseeing the planning, coordination, and delivery of complex engineering projects on naval vessels, working closely with internal teams, OEMs, contractors, and defence stakeholders.
You will play a critical role in ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in full compliance with defence and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage a multi‑disciplinary project/groups team
* Oversee planning and delivery of vessel upgrade and modification programmes
* Produce detailed work packages, schedules, and technical documentation
* Liaise with defence stakeholders to ensure compliance with standards and regulations
* Manage budgets, cost control, change processes, and resource planning
* Coordinate with OEMs, contractors, and internal departments
* Attend client meetings as lead representative
* Support commercial activities including invoicing and final account negotiations
* Monitor KPIs and report project performance to senior management
* Ensure all work meets safety, quality, and statutory requirements
Requirements
Essential:
* Proven experience in contract or project management within marine, defence, shipbuilding, or heavy engineering
* Engineering qualification (HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Marine, Electrical or similar)
* Strong leadership and stakeholder management experience
* Project management qualification (PRINCE2 / APM / PMP)
* Strong IT skills (MS Office Suite)
Desirable:
* Experience working on MOD / Royal Navy / RFA projects
* Knowledge of classification societies and defence regulations
Benefits
* 23 days annual leave (rising to 25 with service) + bank holidays
* Holiday buy/sell scheme
* Company pension scheme (matched contribution)
* Free on‑site parking
* Long‑term career progression within a specialist sector
About Us
We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we’re happy to discuss flexible working options.
We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients. If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies Privacy Notice.
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