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 H&S, 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 communicator who builds trust with clients, designers, operations and commercial teams.
• Robust HSEQ leadership and proactive risk management.

Qualifications & requirements

• HNC/HND or Degree in Civil Engineering (or similar).
• SMSTS (or equivalent), CSCS, full UK driving licence.
• Temporary Works appreciation; water hygiene/confined space desirable (can be provided).
• Proficient with MS Project/Primavera (or equivalent) and MS 365.

Travel & patch

North East–led (Teesside & North Yorkshire) with travel across Northern England aligned to project needs.

Why join?

• Impact & visibility: sector-lead remit on a strategic NWL framework.
• Stability & growth: strong forward order book and clear growth plans.
• People & development: apprenticeships, skills development and progression pathways.
• Benefits: 26 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, flexible car leasing, overtime paid at standard rates, supportive culture.

Fore more infromation contact David Fletcher of Fulcrum Recruitment