At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage commercial aspects of small projects and FM contracts for successful outcomes.
- Company: Join a leading engineering and construction firm with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, early finish Fridays, private medical, bonus, and pension.
- Other info: Be part of a company that values progress, responsibility, and lasting impact.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while building strong client relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial management within facilities management or construction required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 € per year.
Dowds is a long established, multidisciplinary engineering and construction Building Services Engineering company headquartered in Ballymena, Northern Ireland. Founded in 1978, our expertise spans the full lifecycle of complex‑built environments from initial design and systems integration through to installation, commissioning, and handover. Across specific sectors: life science, commercial, education and healthcare. Operating at a gold standard for best managed company and investors in people, our vision is to set the standard for excellence, driving progress, responsibility, and lasting impact. While keeping our clients and our people at the heart of what we do.
We are seeking an experienced Commercial Manager to join our Facilities Management team in Scotland. This role will take commercial responsibility for a diverse portfolio of small works, minor projects, and FM contracts, supporting operational teams to deliver well‑controlled, profitable, and compliant outcomes. Working closely with Operations and Project Managers, you’ll oversee cost control, commercial reporting, and contract governance across multiple concurrent projects, ensuring strong financial performance while maintaining excellent client relationships.
What you'll be responsible for:
- Take commercial ownership of a portfolio of small projects and FM works from award through to close‑out
- Prepare, manage, and report cost plans, forecasts, and final accounts
- Monitor margins, cash flow, and commercial risk across multiple live contracts
- Manage variations, applications for payment, and change control processes
- Support operational teams with commercial advice and challenge, ensuring best practice is followed
- Ensure compliance with contractual, financial, and governance requirements
- Build and maintain strong working relationships with clients, supply chain partners, and internal stakeholders
- Contribute to continuous improvement of commercial processes within the FM business
What we are looking for:
- Proven experience in a Commercial Manager, Senior QS, or Commercial Lead role within Facilities Management, building services, or construction
- Strong understanding of commercial control across multiple small or fast‑turnaround projects
- Experience managing change, variations, and financial reporting across live contracts
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively with operational teams
- High level of commercial awareness and attention to detail
- Experience working within FM, hard services, or minor works environments
- Familiarity with NEC and/or JCT contracts
- Relevant commercial qualification (e.g. QS, Commercial Management, or Construction‑related degree)
Why Join Dowds:
- 41 Days Holiday
- Early Finish Fridays
- Private Medical
- Bonus
- Pension
- Plus, many more
Dowds is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Commercial Manager employer: J.F. & H. DOWDS LTD t/a DOWDS
At Dowds, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With 41 days of holiday, early finish Fridays, and a commitment to continuous improvement, our team members thrive in an environment that values collaboration and excellence. Join us in Edinburgh, where you can make a meaningful impact in the Facilities Management sector while enjoying a range of benefits designed to enhance your work-life balance.
Contact Detail:
J.F. & H. DOWDS LTD t/a DOWDS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Commercial Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Dowds and understanding their projects and values. We want to see your enthusiasm for our mission and how you can contribute to our success. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with our needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. We’re looking for candidates who can communicate effectively and demonstrate their commercial acumen.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. We value direct applications and want to see your passion for joining our Facilities Management team at Dowds.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Commercial Manager role. Highlight your experience in Facilities Management and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for Dowds. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your commercial awareness and ability to manage multiple projects.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you’ve successfully managed costs, improved processes, or built strong client relationships in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at J.F. & H. DOWDS LTD t/a DOWDS
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Commercial Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of cost control and financial reporting. Brush up on key metrics related to margins, cash flow, and project forecasts. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed these aspects in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
This role requires strong relationships with clients and internal teams. Prepare examples of how you've built and maintained these relationships in the past. Think about specific situations where your communication skills made a difference in project outcomes.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Contracts
Since familiarity with NEC and JCT contracts is essential, make sure you understand the key elements of these agreements. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated contract governance and compliance in your previous positions.
✨Continuous Improvement Mindset
Dowds values continuous improvement in commercial processes. Think of examples where you've contributed to enhancing efficiency or effectiveness in your previous roles. Highlight your proactive approach to identifying areas for improvement and implementing solutions.
