At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee multiple residential projects from start to finish, ensuring quality and timely delivery.
- Company: Dynamic self-build developer focused on innovative residential schemes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Ideal for proactive individuals who thrive in entrepreneurial settings.
- Why this job: Join a growing team where your expertise directly impacts exciting new builds.
- Qualifications: Experience in property development and strong project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Our client is seeking an experienced Development / Contracts Manager with a strong background delivering small‑to‑medium new‑build residential schemes (6–30 units), including houses, terraces, and low‑rise apartments, ideally within London and the Home Counties. They will combine technical delivery expertise with the leadership and structure required for a growing self‑build developer.
Professional Background
- Demonstrable experience with small–medium property developers, self‑build contractors, or high‑quality residential SMEs.
- Proven track record taking schemes from pre‑construction through delivery to handover, including procurement, programming, build sequencing, and contractor management.
- Experience with both new‑build and refurbishment projects (HMO or mixed‑use beneficial).
- Strong understanding of UK building regs, planning conditions, NHBC/structural warranty requirements, CDM, and typical residential compliance pathways.
Core Responsibilities
- Full project oversight of multiple developments (e.g., 6–30 units).
- Managing programmes, site operations, procurement, contractors and subcontractors.
- Overseeing health & safety, quality control, build sequencing, and cost‑to‑complete forecasting.
- Ensuring timely delivery to budget and specification.
- Working directly with founders to refine processes, reporting lines, and operational structure.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong technical build knowledge (housebuilding, RC frame or traditional methods).
- Excellent procurement and supply‑chain capability, with established industry contacts.
- Ability to troubleshoot on‑site issues quickly and practically.
- High level of organisation with strong reporting and communication skills.
- Comfortable managing multiple sites at once (2–3 concurrent).
- Thrives in a small, entrepreneurial, hands‑on environment.
Personality
- Proactive, solutions‑driven, and commercially aware.
- Not corporate — prefers SME environments where they can influence decisions.
- Able to build trust with subcontractors, design teams, and clients.
- Takes ownership of outcomes and performs well with autonomy.
Ideal Qualifications
- Construction management, building engineering, or similar degree (desirable but not essential).
- SMSTS, First Aid, CSCS (site-level competency).
- Membership of CIOB or working towards (beneficial).
Locations
Contracts Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: Ashbrittle Recruitment
Our client offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for Contracts Managers, where your expertise in delivering residential schemes will be valued and nurtured. With a focus on small-to-medium developments in London and the Home Counties, you will have the opportunity to lead projects from inception to completion while enjoying a culture that encourages innovation and personal growth. The company prioritises employee development and provides a collaborative atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. The more people you know in the field, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your past projects, highlighting your role in each stage from pre-construction to handover. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing small-to-medium residential schemes. Tailor your answers to reflect their values and goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals who fit the bill. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience with small-to-medium residential schemes. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects you've managed.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our client’s needs. Share specific examples of your project oversight and how you’ve successfully navigated challenges in previous roles.
Showcase Your Technical Knowledge:We’re looking for someone with strong technical build knowledge. Make sure to mention your familiarity with UK building regulations and any relevant certifications you hold. This will help us see your expertise right away!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow instructions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashbrittle Recruitment
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your previous projects in detail, especially those that align with the role. Be ready to explain your role in taking schemes from pre-construction to handover, and highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Brush Up on Regulations
Familiarise yourself with UK building regulations, planning conditions, and compliance pathways relevant to residential projects. Being able to demonstrate your knowledge of these areas will show that you're well-prepared and understand the complexities of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that illustrate your ability to manage teams and contractors effectively. Discuss how you've led projects, managed site operations, and ensured quality control, as this is crucial for a Contracts Manager position.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Problem-Solving
Think of specific instances where you've had to troubleshoot on-site issues quickly. Highlight your proactive approach and solutions-driven mindset, as these traits are essential for thriving in a small, entrepreneurial environment.
