Location: London / South East (Head Office and Project Sites, as required) | Employment Type: Full Time | Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
About Our Client
Our client is a privately owned property investment and development business with a strong track record delivering high‑quality residential, commercial and mixed‑use developments across London and the South East. Their portfolio spans the full development lifecycle – from land acquisition and planning through to design, construction, completion and long‑term asset management. Current projects include complex, high‑value schemes that require close collaboration with local authorities, statutory undertakers, transport authorities and key stakeholders.
Construction delivery is undertaken through the Group’s own principal contracting business, giving them greater control over programme, quality, safety and commercial performance across the portfolio. As an integrated contractor, they influence design, procurement and construction from the earliest stages, with a strong focus on collaboration, innovation and long‑term value.
As the business continues to grow, they are investing in a highly capable in‑house team of construction, commercial and technical professionals to support an expanding pipeline of major developments. The structure is deliberately lean, giving experienced professionals direct access to senior leadership and genuine influence over how projects are delivered. There is a long‑term route to Commercial Director as the business grows.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Commercial & Procurement Manager to join the senior leadership team. This strategic role is responsible for establishing and leading the commercial and procurement function across a portfolio of complex residential, mixed‑use and infrastructure‑led developments. Working closely with the Construction Operations Director, you will develop commercial systems, procurement strategies and contract‑management procedures while supporting project teams from pre‑construction to final account.
The role requires someone capable of operating across multiple projects simultaneously, providing commercial leadership, identifying opportunities for value improvement and ensuring robust financial control throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Management
- Lead all commercial activities across multiple live projects
- Prepare project budgets, cost plans and monthly commercial reports/forecasts
- Monitor expenditure, manage cash‑flow and review cost‑to‑complete forecasts
- Identify commercial risks and opportunities, and develop mitigation strategies
- Manage change control, valuations, variations and final account negotiations
Procurement
- Develop project procurement strategies and schedules aligned with construction programmes
- Prepare tender documentation and manage tender enquiries/evaluations
- Undertake commercial analysis of subcontract returns and negotiate packages
- Build long‑term relationships with key supply chain partners and monitor performance
- Identify value engineering opportunities without compromising quality or programme
Contract Administration & Cost Control
- Administer subcontract agreements and ensure contractual compliance
- Manage notices, claims and contractual correspondence
- Establish cost reporting procedures and review payment applications
- Assess variations, compensation events and monitor contingency expenditure
Risk, Leadership & Stakeholder Management
- Maintain commercial risk registers and assess market/supply‑chain conditions
- Develop commercial procedures and help build out the commercial department
- Mentor junior commercial staff and promote collaborative working
- Build strong relationships with clients, consultants and subcontractors
Candidate Requirements
- Minimum 10 years’ commercial management experience within construction
- Experience delivering major residential, commercial or infrastructure projects
- Strong procurement and supply‑chain management experience
- Excellent contractual knowledge, including JCT and NEC forms of contract
- Proven negotiation skills and strong financial/commercial acumen
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Excellent communication and leadership skills
- Strong analytical and reporting skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and commercial management software
Desirables:
- Experience with a principal contractor or developer
- Experience on high‑rise residential developments
- Knowledge of the Building Safety Act and Gateway process
- Experience with design‑and‑build procurement
- Experience implementing commercial systems/procedures
- Experience within ISO accredited management systems
What's on Offer
- The opportunity to shape and lead the commercial function of a growing contractor and developer
- Exposure to landmark, technically challenging developments
- Direct involvement with senior leadership and real influence over strategy
- A clear long‑term route to Commercial Director as the business expands
Commercial and Procurement Manager - Mixed use developer employer: deverellsmith
Deverellsmith is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can take ownership of financial processes and make a significant impact. Located just outside Oxford, the company fosters a collaborative culture that prioritises employee growth and development, providing ample opportunities for professional advancement. With a focus on business aviation and prime property, this role not only promises high visibility but also the chance to work closely with the CEO in a supportive and innovative setting.
