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- Tasks: Lead commercial management of civil engineering projects, ensuring profitability and compliance.
- Company: Join a family-owned contractor with 15+ years in civil engineering and a reputation for excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential for contract work, and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact in diverse projects while building long-term client relationships in a stable company.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Commercial Manager or Senior Quantity Surveyor in civil engineering is essential.
- Other info: A full UK driving licence is required; excellent references from senior professionals are a must.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Job Title: Commercial Manager – Civil Engineering
Location: Manchester
Job Type: Permanent or Contract
Salary: GBP70,000 – GBP90,000
About the Company
Our client is a well-established, family-owned civil engineering and infrastructure contractor with over 15 years\’ experience delivering projects from GBP100,000 to GBP11 million. Operating across sectors including highways, industrial, education, health, rail, and energy, they have built a reputation for technical excellence, reliability, and on-time delivery.
Their expertise spans civil engineering, groundworks, FRC works, earthworks, and external works-offering clients a complete, high-quality service from start to finish.
The Role
Our client is seeking an experienced Civils Commercial Manager to lead the commercial management of their civil engineering projects. You will be responsible for maximising profitability, ensuring contractual compliance, and protecting the company\’s commercial interests across a diverse portfolio of works.
They are looking for a commercially astute professional with proven success in winning work, maintaining long-term client relationships, and delivering consistently for previous employers.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage all commercial aspects of civil engineering projects from tender to final account.
- Prepare, review, and negotiate contracts, subcontracts, and agreements to ensure favourable terms.
- Monitor project costs, budgets, and cash flow, identifying and mitigating financial risks.
- Prepare valuations, variations, and claims in line with contractual requirements.
- Lead on cost forecasting and reporting, ensuring accuracy and transparency.
- Liaise with project managers and site teams to ensure accurate measurement and valuation of works.
- Manage subcontractor procurement, payments, and performance.
- Ensure compliance with contractual obligations, industry standards, and company procedures.
- Provide commercial advice to support business development and tender submissions.
About You
- Proven experience as a Commercial Manager or Senior Quantity Surveyor within civil engineering, groundworks, highways, and utilities.
- Strong track record of winning work and maintaining a loyal client base.
- Evidence of long-term employment with only a small number of companies over your career (stability is highly valued).
- Excellent references will be required, ideally from company owners or senior directors you have worked with directly.
- Strong understanding of NEC and other standard forms of contract.
- Excellent negotiation, analytical, and financial management skills.
- Ability to work closely with operational teams to drive commercial performance.
- Strong communication and relationship management skills.
- Full UK driving licence is essential.
If you\’re a commercially astute professional with a passion for civil engineering and a proven history of delivering results, we\’d love to hear from you.
Bowdon Associates is a member of the Guild of Quality Employment Agencies and has agreed to adopt the compliance and recruitment standards that form the basis their code of conduct. A quality, transparent and responsible recruitment agency committed to raising the industry standards.
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Commercial Manager employer: Bowdon Associates Limited
Contact Detail:
Bowdon Associates Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the civil engineering sector. Attend industry events, seminars, or workshops where you can meet potential employers and showcase your expertise. Building relationships can often lead to job opportunities that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the company thoroughly before applying. Understand their projects, values, and culture. This knowledge will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest during any interviews or discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous successes in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've maximised profitability and managed commercial aspects in past roles. This will highlight your suitability for the Commercial Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your understanding of NEC and other standard forms of contract. Being able to discuss these in depth will set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your technical knowledge relevant to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in commercial management and civil engineering. Focus on specific projects you've managed, showcasing your ability to maximise profitability and maintain client relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that directly addresses the key responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate your skills in contract negotiation and financial management.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Include any relevant qualifications or certifications that pertain to commercial management or civil engineering. This could include degrees, professional memberships, or training in NEC contracts.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Commercial Manager role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bowdon Associates Limited
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've maximised profitability in previous roles. Highlight your experience with contract negotiations and how you ensured favourable terms for your past employers.
✨Demonstrate Your Industry Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in civil engineering, particularly in sectors relevant to the company. This will show that you're not only experienced but also passionate about the industry.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Prepare scenarios where you've successfully managed project costs or mitigated financial risks, as these are crucial aspects of the role.
✨Emphasise Relationship Management Skills
Since maintaining long-term client relationships is key, be ready to discuss how you've built and sustained these connections in your previous roles. Use specific examples to illustrate your communication and relationship management skills.
