Construction Director

Step Into a Leadership Role with Watkin Jones – Shape the Future of Residential Development.

Watkin Jones, the UK’s leading developer of residential living spaces, is seeking an accomplished and strategic Construction Director to join our senior leadership team. As we continue to expand our presence across the build-to-rent (BTR), co-living, and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sectors, this role presents a significant opportunity to influence the future direction of our business and contribute to the delivery of high-quality developments nationwide.

Key responsibilities include providing timely and accurate project reporting, maintaining rigorous control of budgets and schedules, resolving challenges with a proactive and solution-oriented approach, and driving operational excellence across multiple sites.

In addition, the Construction Director will play a critical role in mentoring and developing Construction Managers, Project Managers, and wider teams, fostering strong relationships with internal stakeholders and subcontractors, and contributing to strategic planning and team performance enhancement.

Operating across the UK, the position requires flexibility to travel and work away from home when necessary, with all associated expenses covered in accordance with company policy. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing a diverse portfolio of projects, ensuring they are delivered efficiently, within budget, and to the highest standards.

About You:

We’re looking for a confident and collaborative leader who thrives in a dynamic environment. Your ability to inspire and motivate teams, combined with a strong commercial mindset, will be key to your success.

You’ll bring:

• Proven leadership experience in construction delivery, ideally across multiple project types.
• A passion for quality, customer care, and innovation.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills at all levels.
• The confidence to make informed decisions and manage risk effectively.
• (Bonus) Experience in student accommodation or the build-to-rent sector.

What we’d love you to have:

• SMSTS certificate
• First Aid certificate
• Scaffolding certificate
• CSCS Card

Why join us?

At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:

• Professional Growth: Individual support for your career advancement.
• Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
• Work-Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), flexible working from home, and discounted gym memberships.
• Wellbeing: Access to ‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform
• Benefits: Company car or allowance, exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.

About Us:

Watkin Jones Group is the UK's leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000 PBAS beds and BTR units since inception across 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 20,000 units across 58 schemes, representing £3.2bn of assets under management.