Job Title
Contracts Manager
Reporting To:
Contracts Director
Direct Reports:
All staff working on projects assigned by the Contracts Director.
The Client
A leading multi-disciplined construction and civil engineering company delivering demolition, enabling works, remediation, earthworks, infrastructure, and sustainable solutions across the UK. The business is recognised for its commitment to safety, innovation, sustainability, operational excellence, and collaborative client relationships.
The Contracts Manager will play a key leadership role in ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently, profitably, and in line with my clients values and standards.
Role
The Contracts Manager is responsible for the operational, commercial, safety, environmental, and programme performance of multiple projects under their control. The role ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the high-quality standards expected by my client and their clients.
The role also supports business growth by maintaining strong client relationships, identifying opportunities, and contributing to tendering and business development activities.
Key Responsibilities
Health, Safety, Environmental & Quality (SHEQ)
Promote and uphold strong safety-first culture across all projects.
Ensure all projects comply with company Safety, Environmental, and Quality Management Systems.
Ensure health, safety, and welfare standards are maintained for employees, subcontractors, visitors, and the public.
Ensure project-specific SHEQ plans are developed, implemented, and approved.
Investigate incidents and accidents thoroughly and report findings to Directors.
Ensure SHEQ audits are completed and corrective actions implemented.
Work closely with the SHEQ team to ensure continuous compliance and improvement.
Operational Management
Manage multiple projects to achieve programme, operational, and financial objectives.
Ensure works are delivered in accordance with specifications, drawings, client expectations, and contractual obligations.
Maintain strong client communication and protect the company’s commercial interests.
Oversee procurement of subcontractors, plant, and materials to achieve best value and programme delivery.
Ensure all procurement activities align with company procedures and tender allowances.
Develop, monitor, and manage project programmes and key milestones.
Ensure delays, variations, and changes are effectively managed and communicated.
Lead regular project and progress meetings with internal teams and stakeholders.
Commercial Management
Maximise profitability and contribute positively to company cashflow and commercial performance.
Monitor budgets, forecasts, cost control, and value recovery across all projects.
Attend monthly commercial and contract review meetings.
Support the Commercial Team in managing risks, opportunities, valuations, and final accounts.
Leadership & Communication
Lead project teams through positive leadership, collaboration, and accountability.
Promote company values, standards, and professional reputation.
Communicate effectively with Directors, Managers, clients, subcontractors, and stakeholders.
Escalate risks or issues affecting delivery, safety, programme, or commercial performance promptly.
Personnel Management
Support the development, supervision, and performance management of site teams.
Define clear roles and responsibilities across projects.
Identify training and development needs within teams.
Support recruitment, succession planning, and employee progression.
Encourage continuous professional development and high-performance culture.
Business Development & Client Relationships
Build and maintain strong working relationships with existing and prospective clients.
Support estimating and tendering teams during bid submissions and project planning.
Identify opportunities for repeat business and new market sectors.
Represent the company professionally at meetings, networking events, and industry functions.
Promote the company’s reputation for quality, safety, and delivery excellence.
Person Specification
Essential Experience
Proven experience as a Contracts Manager within construction, demolition, civil engineering, remediation, or enabling works.
Strong experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Demonstrable operational and commercial management capability.
Experience managing subcontractors, procurement, project programmes, and client relationships.
Strong understanding of construction contracts and project delivery processes.
Essential Skills & Competencies
Strong leadership and people management skills.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
Commercial awareness and financial management capability.
Strong planning, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities.
Strong knowledge of health & safety legislation and industry best practice.
Qualifications
Relevant construction-related qualification (HNC/HND/Degree or equivalent).
SMSTS certification.
Appropriate CSCS Card.
Full UK Driving Licence.
Desirable
Membership of CIOB, RICS, ICE, or equivalent professional body.
NEBOSH or IOSH qualification.
Experience within demolition, enabling works, remediation, earthworks, or infrastructure sectors.
Knowledge of NEC and JCT forms of contract.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Health & safety performance.
Project delivery against programme.
Commercial performance and profitability.
Client satisfaction and repeat business.
Quality and compliance standards.
Team performance and development.
Successful project delivery and stakeholder management.
Personal Attributes
Professional, driven, and proactive.
Strong attention to detail.
Positive and collaborative leadership style.
Commercially focused and results-oriented.
High level of integrity and accountability.
Adaptable with a solutions-focused approach