Commercial Director in Edinburgh

Commercial Director in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Full-Time 80000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
John G MacKintosh

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the commercial strategy and drive business growth in a dynamic environment.
  • Company: Join JGM, an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, car allowance, and performance-related bonuses.
  • Other info: Opportunity for career progression and executive development.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of a growing business while developing your leadership skills.
  • Qualifications: Experience in senior commercial roles and a degree in a related discipline.

The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer, committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, where everyone is treated with respect and fairness. JGM is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Role Overview

The Commercial Director is a key member of the senior leadership team, responsible for setting and leading the overall commercial strategy of the business. This role provides strategic direction and oversight of all commercial activities across the organisation, ensuring strong financial performance, effective risk management, and robust contractual governance. The Commercial Director will lead the commercial function across all projects and frameworks, driving consistency, best practice, and continuous improvement, while supporting business growth, client relationships, and long‑term profitability.

Health, Safety & Environment

Safety is a core value at JGM and must always be a primary consideration in all work activities. All employees have a responsibility under the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974 to:

  • Take reasonable care of themselves and others who may be affected by their actions or omissions,
  • Ensure the health, safety, and welfare of colleagues and visitors,
  • Protect, as far as reasonably practicable, others from risks arising from work activities.

The Commercial Director is responsible for supporting and promoting a strong safety culture and ensuring their decisions align with company Health, Safety, and Environmental policies and obligations.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Commercial Leadership

  • Define and implement the company’s commercial strategy aligned with business objectives,
  • Provide leadership and direction to the commercial function across all projects and regions,
  • Act as a key advisor to the Managing Director and board on commercial matters,
  • Drive a culture of commercial excellence, accountability, and performance.

Financial Performance & Governance

  • Oversee overall business financial performance including revenue, margin, and cash flow,
  • Establish and maintain robust commercial governance, controls, and reporting frameworks,
  • Lead financial forecasting, budgeting, and long‑term planning in collaboration with senior leadership,
  • Review and challenge project performance (CVRs) to ensure accuracy and accountability,
  • Identify and drive opportunities to improve profitability and operational efficiency.

Provide strategic oversight of contractual risk across all projects and frameworks, ensure effective management of contracts (NEC, JCT, SBCC) and commercial compliance, lead high‑level negotiations, dispute resolution, and risk mitigation strategies, protect the company’s commercial interests and ensure contractual entitlements are maximised.

Procurement & Supply Chain Strategy

  • Develop and implement procurement and supply chain strategies aligned with business goals,
  • Oversee key subcontractor and supplier relationships at a strategic level,
  • Ensure robust subcontract management processes are in place across all projects,
  • Drive value, performance, and innovation within the supply chain.

Leadership & Team Development

  • Lead, mentor, and develop the commercial management team including Commercial Managers and Surveyors,
  • Build a high‑performing commercial function with clear structure, accountability, and succession planning,
  • Promote continuous professional development and best practice across the team,
  • Foster a collaborative working environment across commercial, operational, and support functions.

Business Growth & Stakeholder Management

  • Support business development, tendering, and pre‑construction activities with strategic commercial input,
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, partners, and stakeholders,
  • Contribute to company growth strategy, identifying new opportunities and markets,
  • Represent the business at senior level in client and industry engagements.

Qualifications

  • Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or related discipline,
  • Professional membership (RICS or equivalent) highly desirable,
  • Full UK Driving Licence.

General

This job description outlines the main responsibilities and duties of the role but is not exhaustive. The post holder may be required to undertake other duties within the company as necessary, consistent with the level of responsibility and competence of the role. JGM reserves the right to amend or update this job description in line with business needs and company priorities.

Salary: Competitive (Depending on Experience)

Commercial Director in Edinburgh employer: John G MacKintosh

At JGM, we pride ourselves on being an equal opportunities employer that fosters a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion. As a Commercial Director, you will not only lead the strategic direction of our commercial activities but also benefit from a competitive salary, comprehensive pension scheme, and opportunities for career progression within a supportive environment. Our commitment to health, safety, and employee development ensures that you will thrive in a workplace that values your contributions and prioritises your professional growth.
John G MacKintosh

Contact Detail:

John G MacKintosh Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Commercial Director in Edinburgh

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and engage on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Commercial Director role.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their commercial strategy and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re the perfect fit!

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t just wait for job postings! Apply directly through our website and express your interest in the Commercial Director position. Sometimes, being proactive can set you apart from the crowd.

✨Tip Number 4

Follow up after interviews with a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your key points!

We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Director in Edinburgh

Commercial Strategy Development
Financial Performance Management
Contractual Governance
Risk Management
Negotiation Skills
Stakeholder Management
Procurement Strategy
Supply Chain Management
Leadership and Team Development
Business Development
Analytical Skills
Understanding of NEC, JCT, and SBCC Contracts
Operational Efficiency Improvement
Client Relationship Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in commercial strategy and leadership. We want to see how your skills align with our goals at JGM!

Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you’ve driven financial performance and improved processes in previous roles. We love seeing quantifiable results!

Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A bit of authenticity can make your application stand out in a sea of candidates.

Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to review your details and get back to you!

How to prepare for a job interview at John G MacKintosh

✨Know Your Commercial Strategy

Before the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of commercial strategies relevant to the building services sector. Be prepared to discuss how you would define and implement a commercial strategy that aligns with business objectives, as this is crucial for the role.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a Commercial Director, you'll need to lead and mentor your team effectively. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully developed a high-performing team or driven a culture of accountability and performance. Be ready to share these stories during the interview.

✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen

Brush up on your financial performance metrics, including revenue, margin, and cash flow management. Be prepared to discuss how you've overseen financial forecasting and budgeting in previous roles, as well as how you've identified opportunities for improving profitability.

✨Understand Contractual Governance

Familiarise yourself with different contract forms like NEC, JCT, and SBCC. During the interview, be ready to explain how you've managed contractual risks and ensured compliance in past projects. This will show your potential employer that you can protect their commercial interests effectively.

Commercial Director in Edinburgh
John G MacKintosh
Location: Edinburgh

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