Cumming Group is an international project and cost management consultancy delivering innovative solutions in construction, real estate, and infrastructure. With a commitment to collaboration, transparency, and performance excellence, we support some of the world’s most respected clients across diverse range of sectors.
Due to continued growth across our Infrastructure & Utilities portfolio, we are seeking an Associate Director to strengthen our Manchester office, with regular presence in Warrington to support key client delivery.
This is a senior leadership opportunity for a Utilities-focused professional with strong NEC expertise and a proven track record in work-winning and client development.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Lead and grow Utilities sector service delivery across Manchester and Warrington.
Develop and nurture long-term client relationships, identifying cross-sell and growth opportunities.
Take ownership of revenue targets, profitability and P&L performance within your portfolio.
Lead NEC-based project delivery (NEC3/NEC4), ensuring robust commercial and contract management.
Drive work-winning activity, bid leadership, fee proposals and strategic positioning.
Oversee resource planning, forecasting and team utilisation to meet sector growth objectives.
Provide leadership and line management to direct reports, including mentoring and annual appraisals.
Support recruitment aligned with long-term sector strategy.
Ensure governance, quality assurance, and commercial controls are embedded across projects.
Monitor project financial performance and support fee recovery where required.
Knowledge & Skills Required:
Strong background in Utilities infrastructure (water, energy, power, or regulated environments).
Demonstrable NEC contract expertise (essential).
Proven ability to win work and develop client relationships.
Commercially astute with experience managing project profitability and budgets.
Experience leading teams and delivering complex infrastructure programmes.
Confident communicator with strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering or similar.
MRICS (or equivalent) preferred.
Why Join Cumming Group?
At Cumming Group, your success is measured by the impact you make. We offer:
The opportunity to shape and grow a key Utilities region.
A collaborative and entrepreneurial culture.
Exposure to high-profile infrastructure programmes.
Clear progression towards Director-level opportunities.
A business that values innovation, accountability and leadership.
You’ll be joining a dynamic team where initiative is encouraged, performance is recognised, and long-term career development is supported.
Cumming Group is committed to creating a diverse workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All job applicants will receive equal treatment without regard to age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, “race” (includes nationality, national / ethnic origins, colour) marriage & civil partnership, pregnancy & maternity, gender reassignment, religion and belief.
Note for Recruitment Agencies:
We prefer to hire directly, and we will be in touch with our PSL Agencies if this role is eligible for release.
Associate Director in Manchester employer: Cumming Group
Cumming Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in the construction and real estate sectors. With a strong commitment to employee development and a culture that values transparency and performance excellence, team members are encouraged to grow their skills and advance their careers while working on impactful projects. Located in a vibrant area, employees benefit from a supportive atmosphere and the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of clients and stakeholders.
