Commercial Branch Manager

UPP, the leading partner to UK universities for on-campus accommodation infrastructure, is seeking to recruit a Senior Commercial Manager to play a key role in supporting UPP’s strategic growth plan, which aims to secure new business from both existing and new Higher Education partners across the UK. UPP is the UK’s leading provider of on-campus residential accommodation infrastructure, operating over 35,000 rooms in partnership with 15 world-leading universities across the UK. At UPP we have a proud history of leading innovation in campus accommodation, having invested over £3.5bn over the last three decades, working with world-leading architects to build or redevelop highly sustainable student accommodation that meets Passivhaus, BREEAM and WELL standards. The Senior Commercial Manager will lead the legal and commercial workstream on individual projects, collaborating with the wider team to achieve Preferred Bidder status on competitively tendered projects and Exclusivity status with universities on directly awarded projects. The Senior Commercial Manager will work closely with the team to reach Financial Close on these transactions. A key aspect of the role is to ensure the appropriate allocation of risk with University Partners, Funders, Contractors, Consultants, and Suppliers. Establishing and developing positive relationships with stakeholders in the Higher Education sector, including the legal advisory community, is essential to promote UPP’s reputation as a market leader. UPP are seeking an individual with a proven track record in reviewing and negotiating commercial documentation for major construction, infrastructure, and/or FM projects, who has successfully engaged with client partners on large-scale, complex bids and demonstrated excellent relationship management abilities. Experience in PFI/PPP and/or design, build, finance and operate projects and/or exposure to the purpose-built student accommodation sector would be advantageous, but is not essential if a candidate has the aptitude to quickly build an understanding of the sector and the contractual nature of these types of projects. The role attracts a competitive six figure salary commensurate with a role at this level, together with a generous performance bonus. UPP is an inclusive and flexible employer and offers comprehensive benefits package including 29 days holiday plus bank holidays, private healthcare, pension, enhanced family leave policy, life assurance, training, two paid volunteering or personal development days and cycle to work scheme. Check out their website for more information about UPP, their culture and benefits. Based in their award-winning offices in London, with a hybrid working policy that supports working from home 2/3 days a week. Due to the nature of the role you can expect regular travel and overnight stays when required. UPP welcomes all applications and recognises the value of having a diverse and inclusive culture, which reflects the communities they work with and has a positive impact on their people, the student residents, and university partners. They understand all disabilities, impairments and conditions are unique, so please advise us of any adjustments to support you through the recruitment process and also help you to thrive at work.