Contracts Manager

About the Company

My client is an established specialist contractor delivering groundworks, reinforced concrete structures and associated civil engineering works across London and the South East.

With a strong reputation for quality, reliability and project delivery, the business works alongside leading main contractors and developers on a range of residential, commercial and mixed-use developments.

Due to continued growth and a strong pipeline of secured projects, an opportunity has arisen for an experienced Contracts Manager to join the senior operational team.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and commercially aware Contracts Manager to oversee the successful delivery of multiple groundworks and reinforced concrete projects across London and the South East.

The successful candidate will take overall responsibility for project performance, ensuring contracts are delivered safely, on programme, within budget and to the highest quality standards.

Working closely with Project Managers, Site Managers, commercial teams and senior management, you will play a key role in maintaining client relationships, driving operational performance and supporting the continued growth of the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the delivery of multiple groundworks and reinforced concrete frame projects from pre-construction through to completion.
• Manage and support Project Managers, Site Managers, engineers and operational teams across several sites.
• Ensure projects are delivered in accordance with agreed programmes, budgets and contractual requirements.
• Monitor project performance, identifying risks and implementing effective solutions.
• Work closely with the commercial team to manage costs, variations, valuations and overall project profitability.
• Attend and lead client meetings, progress reviews and internal operational meetings.
• Maintain strong working relationships with main contractors, developers, consultants and supply chain partners.
• Oversee labour, plant, materials and subcontractor resources to ensure efficient project delivery.
• Ensure full compliance with health and safety legislation, company procedures and quality standards.
• Assist with tender reviews, pre-construction planning and project mobilisation.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, productivity and commercial performance.
• Provide regular project updates and performance reports to the senior management team.

Experience & Requirements

• Proven experience as a Contracts Manager or Senior Project Manager within a specialist groundworks, civil engineering or reinforced concrete frame contractor.
• Strong technical knowledge of groundworks, substructures, drainage, foundations and reinforced concrete construction.
• Demonstrable experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent understanding of construction programmes, contractual obligations and commercial management.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and motivate operational teams.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and client-facing skills.
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach to project delivery.
• Relevant construction qualifications such as HNC, HND or degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management would be advantageous.
• SMSTS and CSCS qualifications preferred.
• Full UK driving licence.

The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate will be an experienced Contracts Manager who has progressed through the groundworks or reinforced concrete sector and possesses a strong understanding of both the technical and commercial aspects of project delivery.

You will be comfortable managing multiple sites, building relationships with major contractors and taking ownership of project performance.

This opportunity would suit an ambitious individual looking to join an established and growing specialist contractor where they can make a genuine impact on the business.