At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and oversee multiple commercial build projects, ensuring quality and performance.
- Company: Respected main contractor with a strong presence in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive leadership, and clear progression routes.
- Why this job: Join a stable company that values its people and fosters long-term relationships.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in contracts management or senior project management.
- Other info: Ideal for organised leaders with a background in commercial builds.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 80000 £ per year.
Our client, a respected commercial build main contractor with a strong presence across Cambridge and the wider region, is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to join their senior team. This is a key leadership role for someone who can confidently oversee multiple projects, drive programme performance, and maintain strong client relationships.
The Role
As Contracts Manager, you will take operational responsibility for a portfolio of commercial projects—typically ranging from £5m–£25m. You’ll support project teams from pre-construction through to handover, ensuring delivery is safe, profitable, and aligned with the contractor’s quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee multiple live projects, ensuring performance on cost, quality, and programme
- Lead and support project managers, site teams, and operational staff
- Maintain excellent relationships with clients, consultants, and supply chain partners
- Review project progress, report to senior leadership, and implement corrective actions where necessary
- Ensure compliance with health & safety and company procedures
- Contribute to tender reviews and pre-construction planning where required
- Drive high standards of project delivery and customer satisfaction
About You
We’re looking for a strong, organised leader with a commercial build background. You’ll be comfortable managing several projects at once and have a solid track record working for a main contractor.
Ideal Background
- Proven experience as a Contracts Manager or Senior Project Manager ready to step up
- Strong understanding of commercial build projects (education, offices, mixed‑use, healthcare, etc.)
- Clear leadership ability and confidence managing multiple PMs and site teams
- Excellent communication and client‑facing skills
- Strong commercial awareness and understanding of programme management
- Based within commutable distance of Cambridge
Why This Opportunity?
This contractor is known for stable leadership, sensible workloads, and long‑term client relationships. You’ll join a company that values its people and provides clear progression routes at senior level.
How to Apply
For a confidential discussion please contact Jenny Saban in our Cambridge office or to be considered please submit your CV.
Contracts Manager employer: ARC (Norwich) Ltd
Contact Detail:
ARC (Norwich) Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the role of Contracts Manager. Highlight your leadership skills and ability to manage multiple projects effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Contracts Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing commercial build projects and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you’ve driven programme performance or maintained strong client relationships. This helps us see the impact you've made in your previous roles.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A bit of warmth and authenticity can make your application stand out. Remember, we’re looking for someone who fits well with our team culture!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at ARC (Norwich) Ltd
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the types of commercial projects the company handles. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences managing similar projects, especially those in the £5m–£25m range. This will show that you understand their business and can hit the ground running.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Contracts Manager, you'll need to lead project teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed multiple teams or projects in the past. Highlight your leadership style and how it has contributed to project success and client satisfaction.
✨Showcase Your Client Relationship Management
Strong client relationships are key in this role. Think of specific instances where you’ve built or maintained excellent relationships with clients, consultants, or supply chain partners. Be ready to discuss how you handle challenges and ensure client satisfaction.
✨Understand Compliance and Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with health and safety regulations relevant to commercial builds. Be prepared to discuss how you ensure compliance on your projects and any corrective actions you've implemented in the past. This will demonstrate your commitment to safety and quality standards.