Contracts Manager in EC1

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Job Description

Why Now\n\nOur client is entering a new growth phase following multiple successful brand roll-outs. We’re expanding our project capacity and seeking a Contracts Manager who wants to step up into a leadership role with autonomy, influence, and a clear progression path toward Senior Contracts or Commercial Manager.\n\nAbout the Company\n\nThe company is a specialist fit-out and construction company delivering fast-track retail, restaurant, and hospitality environments across London and the South East. Our reputation is built on technical delivery, transparency, and speed.

We work closely with repeat clients such as F&B operators, developers, and hotel groups — valuing clear communication, accountability, and high-quality finishes.\n\nRole Purpose\n\nTo manage and deliver multiple fast-track fit-out projects (typically £100k–£1m) from tender through to final account, ensuring they are delivered safely, on programme, and within budget. Projects are typically 6–10 weeks on site with overlapping delivery phases — requiring fast decision-making, strong supply-chain coordination, and tight commercial control.\n\nThe Contracts Manager will also contribute to the business growth by leveraging existing client, consultant, and subcontractor relationships to help identify and secure new project opportunities.\n\nReporting Structure\n\nReports to: Director\n\nDirect Reports: Site Managers, Subcontract Supervisors, and selected subcontract packages\n\nInterfaces with: Client representatives, Architects, Quantity Surveyors, Building Control, and Principal Designers\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\nDrive procurement and commercial strategy from pre-start through handover.\n\nAdminister JCT Design & Build / Minor Works contracts and subcontract agreements.\n\nLead pre-start reviews, subcontractor appointments, and ensure compliance.\n\nManage variations, valuations, and final accounts — ensuring all changes are properly authorised and recorded.\n\nSupport estimating and tender review, including scope checking, supplier pricing, and value engineering.\n\nPrepare applications for payment, cost reports, and project summaries.\n\nChair progress meetings, maintain Smartsheet programme updates, and manage coordination with the design team.\n\nOversee H&S compliance and ensure CDM duties are met.\n\nAct as main client contact during delivery — ensuring all instructions and variations are captured and protected.\n\nSubmit weekly Smartsheet progress reports and monthly cost/value reconciliations to the Director.\n\nBusiness Development & Procurement\n\n * Build and maintain relationships with clients, architects, and QS consultants to identify repeat work and new opportunities.\n\n * Proactively engage trusted subcontractors and suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and consistent quality.\n\n * Lead tender clarifications and negotiations with clients, supporting the business in securing profitable contracts.\n\n * Collaborate with the Director on commercial proposals, scope documents, and project pitches for repeat clients.\n\n * Provide early-stage cost and buildability input during tender design reviews.\n\nCandidate Profile\n\n * Minimum 5 years’ experience managing fast-track commercial fit-out projects.\n\n * Strong understanding of JCT contracts, CDM regulations, and construction sequencing.\n\n * Commercially strong with experience in estimating or tender review.\n\n * Established network of contacts within retail, hospitality, or commercial fit-out sectors.\n\n * Proven ability to generate repeat business and support company growth through relationships.\n\n * Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills.\n\n * Proficient with Microsoft Office, Smartsheet, and QuickBooks (or similar systems).\n\n * Full UK driving licence and ability to travel between sites (predominantly London & South East).\n\nPackage & Benefits\n\n * Salary: £70,000 – £80,000 (dependent on experience).\n\n * Performance-linked annual bonus, with additional incentives for repeat business and project wins.\n\n * Vehicle allowance (£5,000) or company van arrangement (negotiable).\n\n * 25 days annual leave + UK Bank Holidays.\n\n * Company auto-enrolment pension scheme.\n\n * Laptop, phone, and Smartsheet access provided.\n\n * Hybrid working – site / home-based with weekly coordination at Kingsbury office.\n\n * Mileage and travel costs reimbursed for site visits.\n\n * Professional development support (CIOB, RICS, or MCIOB).\n\n * 3-month probation period, reviewed on programme delivery, variation recovery, and client satisfaction.\n\nWhy Join\n\n * Work directly with a hands-on Director and take ownership of key fit-out contracts.\n\n * Influence procurement, commercial, and client strategy as the business grows.\n\n * Lean, fast-moving team where initiative is valued over hierarchy.\n\n * High degree of autonomy and decision-making authority.\n\n * Opportunity to progress into Senior Contracts or Commercial Manager role within 12–18 months

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