Lead Contracts Manager

The opportunity A leading regional civil engineering contractor is seeking a client-facing Contracts Manager to be the face of the business on Northumbrian Water (NWL) AMP8 water civils projects across the North East. You ll lead multiple schemes end-to-end, strengthening relationships on the framework and ensuring safe, timely and commercially sound delivery. Direct water-sector experience is ideal; strong candidates from broader main-contracting civils (drainage, public realm etc.) are also encouraged to apply. What you ll do Act as primary client interface for NWL AMP8 works; chair/attend progress, commercial and design meetings. Lead projects from pre-construction to handover: scope, programme, resources, risk and change control. Manage NEC (Options A/C) administration: EWNs, PMIs, CEs, valuations, CVR and forecasting with Commercial. Drive best-in-class HandS, quality and environmental performance (RAMS, ITPs, permits, audits). Coordinate delivery teams and supply chain to meet time, cost and quality targets. Report accurately on programme, cost/value, KPIs/OFWAT metrics and handover documentation. Mentor Engineers/Site Managers and champion a collaborative, learning culture. What you ll bring Proven delivery of water civils (clean/wastewater networks, rehab, drainage) or comparable main-contracting civils. Strong NEC knowledge and confident change/forecast management. Multi-site leadership with clear planning, prioritisation and recovery skills. Credible ..... full job details .....