At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cost and contract management on major infrastructure projects that shape the UK's future.
- Company: Join ABP, the UK's largest ports operator with a commitment to diversity and safety.
- Benefits: Generous salary, pension, private health insurance, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration with industry experts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-value projects that support national infrastructure and trade.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in cost and contract management within infrastructure or civil engineering.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 66000 £ per year.
We’re the UK’s largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK’s seaborne trade and contribute £7.5 billion to our economy every year. It’s a story we’re proud of but it doesn’t end there. We’re transforming our business and embracing the future. We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.
Associated British Ports (ABP) is the UK’s leading ports business, operating 21 ports and handling around 100 million tonnes of cargo every year. As we continue to invest heavily in major infrastructure, energy transition and port development projects, we are looking for an exceptional Cost & Contract Manager to join our Humber team. This is not a role for someone seeking their first step into cost and contract management. We are seeking a seasoned commercial professional with substantial experience of managing cost, risk and contracts throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial business case, procurement and contract strategy through to delivery, administration, commercial close-out and final account resolution.
You’ll play a critical role in supporting a growing programme of infrastructure investment across the Humber, providing expert commercial leadership on projects that can exceed £100 million in value.
Why This Opportunity?
You’ll be joining one of the UK’s largest infrastructure owners and operators at a time of significant investment and transformation. Working alongside experienced project managers, engineers, procurement specialists, legal advisers and external consultants, you’ll be trusted to provide expert commercial judgement on complex projects that directly support the future growth of the UK’s ports sector.
You will have the opportunity to:
- Lead cost and contract management activities on major infrastructure projects
- Influence commercial strategy on high-value construction programmes
- Negotiate and administer NEC4 contracts on behalf of ABP
- Manage commercial risk and maximise value throughout project delivery
- Support procurement and supplier selection activities
- Provide strategic advice to senior stakeholders and project teams
- Contribute to projects that support national infrastructure, trade and renewable energy ambitions
What We're Looking For
We’re interested in speaking with professionals who bring genuine depth of experience within infrastructure and/or civil engineering environments. You will have a strong track record of delivering cost and contract management services across complex construction projects and be comfortable operating as a trusted adviser within multidisciplinary delivery teams.
- Extensive experience in cost, commercial and contract management within major infrastructure, civil engineering, marine or maritime projects
- Proven experience managing commercial activities across the full project lifecycle
- Significant experience developing and implementing commercial and contract strategies
- Strong expertise in cost planning, forecasting, benchmarking, risk management and commercial reporting
- Exceptional working knowledge and practical administration of the NEC4 suite of contracts
- Experience authoring, negotiating and managing complex contracts and commercial agreements
- Experience supporting and influencing procurement strategies and outcomes
- Ability to manage consultants, contractors and key supply chain partners
- Strong stakeholder management, negotiation and communication skills
- Degree qualification in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or a related discipline, or equivalent experience
- Professional qualification such as MRICS or equivalent
Highly Desirable
- Infrastructure and major civils project experience
- Experience working across both client-side and contractor-side organisations
- Experience within regulated or publicly funded environments
- Strong understanding of commercial governance and procurement best practice
Location
Based within the Humber region, with travel to project sites across the Humber area up to three days per week.
Additional Information
When joining ABP you will find an environment that is both welcoming and challenging. We reward our employees well and offer a generous remuneration package, employer pension, private health insurance and a range of other benefits.
Please note that ABP undertake random screening for substance abuse and operate a zero-tolerance policy. A medical will be required before starting this position also. We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their background, which helps us to provide a diverse and inclusive working environment.
Cost & Contract Manager in Swindon employer: Associated British Ports
At Associated British Ports, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values resilience and clear communication. Our team members benefit from comprehensive training, opportunities for career advancement, and the chance to work in a dynamic environment at Solent Gateway, where every day brings new challenges and rewards.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost & Contract Manager in Swindon
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Associated British Ports, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Cost & Contract Manager at Associated British Ports.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost & Contract Manager in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Associated British Ports
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
