At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead contract strategy and governance for major construction projects at London Gatwick.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at London Gatwick Airport, shaping the future of construction.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, discounts, healthcare, and professional training.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with a focus on collaboration and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on exciting infrastructure projects while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Construction Law or related field; experience with NEC contracts preferred.
The predicted salary is between 98000 - 98000 £ per year.
This role takes an office first hybrid approach here at London Gatwick, with three days a week in the office, two days remote, managed around the needs of the business.
London Gatwick is evolving rapidly, presenting an exciting opportunity for a Contracts Lead to play a pivotal role in shaping how we deliver major construction projects across the airport. As Contracts Lead, you'll sit at the heart of our Construction function, driving excellence in contract strategy, governance, and dispute resolution. You'll work closely with project teams, procurement, and legal specialists to ensure our contracts deliver value, minimise risk, and support successful project outcomes.
What will you do?
- Lead contract expertise across the Construction team, supporting all contract forms with a focus on NEC
- Own and continuously improve Gatwick's suite of standard contract templates
- Provide assurance that contracts are clear, robust, and fit for purpose
- Manage and resolve commercial queries, disputes, and escalations
- Lead dispute resolution processes and meetings, ensuring optimal outcomes
- Partner with the Construction Lawyer to ensure compliance and governance
- Support procurement strategy by advising on the right contract approach for each project
- Negotiate rates with consultants and contractors to achieve best market value
- Deliver training and share best practice across programme teams
- Identify opportunities to drive cost and programme efficiencies through effective contract use
- Foster collaborative relationships across the supply chain to reduce disputes and enhance long‑term value
Do you have what we're looking for?
- Degree (or equivalent experience) in Construction Law, Commercial Management, or a related field
- Deep knowledge of NEC contracts and Construction Law
- Proven experience managing contract claims and disputes in complex environments
- Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills
- Experience supporting major infrastructure or capital programmes
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast‑paced, evolving environment
- Commercially astute with a track record of delivering against challenging targets
- Professional membership (e.g. RICS) is desirable
What's in it for you?
- 5% Welcome Bonus
- Performance‑based bonus scheme
- High street shops and restaurant discounts
- Healthcare scheme
- Life and disability insurance
- Professional training to develop
- Free holiday parking
- Discounted travel to work schemes
- Free on‑site parking
- Volunteer days
Inclusive & equal opportunity: London Gatwick supports an inclusive recruitment process, enabling you to perform at your best. Please let us know, as part of your application, if you require any reasonable adjustments.
Contracts Lead in Crawley employer: Gatwick Airport Limited
At London Gatwick, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in the construction sector. With a competitive salary package, including a welcome bonus and flexible allowances, our employees benefit from professional training opportunities, a strong focus on inclusivity, and a supportive culture that encourages personal and career growth. Join us in shaping the future of major construction projects at one of the UK's busiest airports, where your expertise will be valued and your contributions will make a real impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Lead in Crawley
✨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 Gatwick Airport Limited, 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 Contracts Lead at Gatwick Airport Limited.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Lead in Crawley
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 Gatwick Airport Limited
✨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!
