Description Costain have won extensive work across the water sector this year to support the AMP 8 investment cycle. We have been appointed by United Utilities as one of 7 partners to the Enterprise, delivering £5.5bn of projects in the Asset Management Period 8 (AMP8) between 2025 – 2030, and AMP 9 (2030 – 2035). Our scope is to provide project management, design, construction and commissioning services on design and build schemes throughout the North West and Cumbria region covered by United Utilities. Projects vary in value, covering both infrastructure and non-infrastructure assets on water and wastewater sites with wider Enterprise partners The role of the Commercial Manager is to drive and lead projects commercially to ensure that it is procured, delivered within budget and to the highest quality whilst exceeding our customers' expectations. You will lead and develop, where necessary, the efficient and effective management and issue of accurate, timely and compliant notices and correspondence and ensure the compliance of all contractual activities on the project The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the legal framework within which the industry operates, and in-depth knowledge of the standard forms of contract (typically NEC3/NEC4) applicable to their portfolio. They must be able to formulate commercial strategies in connection with conflict avoidance, conflict management and dispute resolution and be able to demonstrate good communication, influencing and decision-making skills Responsibilities Manage cost reporting for allocated projects, including Cost Forecasting and Anticipated Final Cost Monitor and report on all commercial aspects of projects, proposing mitigation actions for any issues Demonstrable commercial and contract management experience (pre and post contract essential) Must be customer focused by striving for excellence through understanding, anticipating and meeting their needs Influence decision-making from a commercial perspective and review contractor / subcontractor delivery Manage the assessment and valuation of contractor applications and payment certifications Provide advice on change management and produce documentation for approval Produce payment applications/invoices and manage commercial risk and claims Provide management information and analysis for informed decision-making Ensure proper retention and archiving of commercial records and undertake final account settlements Leading and influencing the programmes strategic sourcing activities for large value, complex spend areas to ensure they align with the broader business objective and market strategies Ensuring innovative delivery sourcing, procurement, implementation and contract management but with a commercial sensible approach with an aim to add value Collaborating with stakeholders on managing contracts and supplier relationships to maximise commercial and contractual benefits Qualifications Professionally qualified (preferably RICS) and accredited QS / Commercial Manager Significant experience in Civil Engineering / Building and preferably knowledge of the Water Sector Experience of managing a medium size team Proven negotiation skills and experience in managing contracts Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence contractor behaviour Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to risk management LI-JA1