Contracts manager

As Contracts Manager , you will take ownership of allocated M&E projects from pre-construction through to completion , acting as the senior point of contact for clients and the lead for the wider project delivery team. Leading a team of Project Engineers, Project Managers, Site supervisors and working closely with the procurement and the commercial team. You will drive each scheme through design, mobilisation, construction and handover, ensuring projects are delivered safely, to programme, and within budget across Primech’s diverse portfolio. Must be competent in dealing with key external stakeholders including Client-facing leadership. Must have proven experience in M&E, taking commercial ownership of multiple live projects at once. This role is central in shaping how projects are run day to day, mentoring team members, and contributing directly to Primech’s continued growth and reputation for excellence. Design Phase Oversee and manage the Project Engineer's (PE) activities during the design stage, ensuring project management and compliance systems are maintained and up to date. Ensure design deliverables are submitted in line with project programme requirements. Pre-construction Phase Attend Estimating Handover Meetings. Set mobilisation targets and monitor progress against key milestones. Act as, or appoint, the primary point of contact for initial client liaison, including attendance at Pre-Contract Meetings. Manage F10 notifications. Oversee R&D and asbestos management processes. Arrange and chair Pre-Start Meetings alongside the Project Manager (PM). Review and approve the Construction Phase Plan and all Health & Safety documentation. Review and approve preliminary and construction programmes. Prepare initial revenue and cashflow forecasts and manage ongoing project forecasting in collaboration with the Quantity Surveyor (QS). Chair Internal Mobilisation Meetings and establish programme and commercial targets for the delivery team. Approve procurement documentation for subcontractor packages and capital equipment. Construction Phase Oversee and manage the Project Manager's (PM) activities, ensuring project management systems are maintained and up to date. Conduct and oversee monthly site audits and inspections to ensure high standards of delivery. Hold regular meetings with delivery teams, with a minimum frequency of every two weeks. Escalate and manage project risks, concerns and high-risk activities with Directors and the Head of Projects. Attend monthly client meetings, preferably in person, to maintain alignment and client satisfaction. Review and approve project variations. Monitor applications, review forecasts, and minimise programme or financial slippage. Monitor project financial performance with the support of the QS and report progress to Directors, the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), and other key stakeholders. Project Completion Phase Oversee the preparation and completion of Q&A and O&M documentation. Ensure projects are closed out efficiently and that completion deadlines are achieved or exceeded. Attend project handover and witness meetings with the PM and client. Ensure Lessons Learned documentation is completed, reviewed and shared across the wider projects team. Conduct client satisfaction reviews and ensure all actions are closed out. Introduce Facilities Management (FM) and Business Development Managers (BDM) to support future business opportunities. Management and General Responsibility Lead and manage team performance, including recruitment, onboarding, coaching, development and performance management of direct reports. Support recruitment initiatives to strengthen and grow the team. Contribute to business development activities, both internally and externally. Conduct Annual Performance Reviews (APRs) for direct reports. Audit delivery team performance, including documentation standards and file management structures. Requirements Essential Skills & Experience Proven technical understanding of mechanical and electrical (M&E) building services and the construction process from design through to project handover. Sound knowledge of CDM 2015 Regulations, including Principal Contractor duties and F10 notification requirements. Working knowledge of standard forms of contract (e.g. JCT and NEC) and subcontract procurement processes. Strong commercial and financial management skills, including project forecasting, monthly applications, variation management and cost control. Programme management experience, with the ability to develop, interpret and monitor construction programmes. Strong Health & Safety leadership, including the review and approval of Construction Phase Plans (CPPs), RAMS and site audits. Proven leadership and people management experience, including the development and line management of Project Managers and Project Engineers. Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build effective relationships at all levels internally and externally. Strong client relationship management skills, with the confidence and credibility to act as the primary client contact. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including chairing meetings, managing actions and producing clear project documentation. Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously. Proficient in Microsoft Office and project management software. Strong negotiation, problem-solving and risk management capabilities, with the ability to identify, escalate and resolve issues effectively. Valid CSCS Black Card (or willingness to obtain). Recognised Health & Safety qualification (e.g. SMSTS or IOSH Managing Safely). Full UK driving licence. Enhanced DBS clearance (or willingness to obtain). BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) clearance (or willingness to obtain). Desirable Skills & Qualifications: HNC, HND, Degree or equivalent qualification in Building Services Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline. NEBOSH General Certificate or NEBOSH Construction Certificate. Membership of, or working towards membership of, a relevant professional body, such as CIOB, CABE, CIBSE or IET. Current national security clearance, including SC (Security Clearance) or DV (Developed Vetting). Benefits Competitive Salary Apple IT equipment and iPad provided. 21 days annual leave plus bank holidays. Performance bonus scheme. Company pension scheme. Professional development and training support. Company Vehicle