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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage high-value modular defence projects from start to finish.
- Company: Leading UK main contractor with a strong Defence Division.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and work on innovative modular construction projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in quantity surveying or commercial management, preferably in defence.
- Other info: Opportunities for long-term career progression in a stable environment.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
A leading UK main contractor with a strong and growing Defence Division is seeking an experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor or Commercial Manager to join their team based in London SE1.
The business is recognised for its expertise in modular and off-site construction, delivering complex, secure and high-quality projects for defence and government clients across the UK.
The Role
You will take commercial responsibility for high-value modular defence projects from pre-construction through to final account, working closely with operational, design and supply-chain teams.
Key responsibilities include:
- Full commercial management of defence projects
- Cost planning, procurement and subcontract management
- Contract administration (NEC / JCT experience preferred)
- Risk and opportunity management
- Change control, valuations and final accounts
- Supporting and mentoring junior commercial staff
- Liaising with clients and key stakeholders in a secure environment
About You
- Proven experience as a Senior Quantity Surveyor or Commercial Manager within a main contractor
- Strong background in defence, infrastructure, or secure/government projects
- Experience with modular, MMC or off-site construction is highly desirable
- Excellent commercial and contractual knowledge
- Ability to manage complex projects and lead commercially with confidence
- Eligible for or already holding appropriate security clearance (or willing to obtain)
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
- Long-term career progression within a growing defence division
- Opportunity to work on innovative modular construction projects
- Stable workload and strong project pipeline
- Central London (SE1) location with flexible working options
If you are a commercially driven professional looking to play a key role in delivering secure, cutting-edge modular defence projects, we’d like to hear from you.
Senior Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager - Defence employer: Henley Chase
Contact Detail:
Henley Chase Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager - Defence
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even reach out to former colleagues. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in modular construction and defence projects. Share specific examples of how you've managed complex projects and delivered results.
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework on the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs, especially in contract administration and risk management. Confidence is key!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager - Defence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in defence and modular construction. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing relevant projects you've worked on!
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 Senior Quantity Surveyor or Commercial Manager position. We love seeing passion and a clear understanding of the role.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your commercial management skills. We’re interested in how you’ve successfully managed costs, risks, and contracts in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our growing defence division!
How to prepare for a job interview at Henley Chase
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Quantity Surveyor or Commercial Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in cost planning and procurement. Brush up on your financial acumen and be ready to discuss specific projects where you successfully managed budgets and costs.
✨Understand the Contracts
Familiarise yourself with NEC and JCT contracts, as these are crucial for the role. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated contract administration in past projects, highlighting any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since mentoring junior staff is part of the job, think of examples where you’ve led a team or supported colleagues. Share stories that illustrate your ability to guide others while managing complex projects.
✨Be Security Savvy
Given the nature of defence projects, security clearance is key. If you already hold clearance, mention it upfront. If not, express your willingness to obtain it and discuss any relevant experience working in secure environments.
