At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial management on exciting residential and mixed-use projects in London.
- Company: Dynamic construction firm focused on innovative project delivery.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hands-on experience, and the chance to shape project outcomes.
- Why this job: Take ownership of live projects and make a real impact in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in Quantity Surveying with strong JCT contract knowledge.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth and decision-making autonomy.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We are engaging an experienced Commercial Lead / Senior Quantity Surveyor on a contract basis to support the commercial delivery of live residential and mixed-use construction projects across London and the South East. This role is aimed at a commercially strong QS who is comfortable taking ownership of day-to-day commercial control, contractual position, and cashflow on active schemes. You will be embedded within the project team, supporting delivery while protecting margin and managing commercial risk. This is a hands-on contractor-side role, suited to someone who prefers delivery over theory.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Taking day-to-day ownership of commercial management on one or more live projects
- Managing JCT contract administration, including notices, correspondence, and timescales
- Preparing and controlling valuations, cost reports, forecasts, and CVRs
- Managing variations, loss and expense, and change control, ensuring all entitlement is captured
- Leading subcontract procurement and commercial negotiations, including orders and scopes
- Supporting project and site teams with commercial guidance and discipline
- Managing applications for payment, cashflow, and commercial correspondence
- Working closely with technical and construction teams to maintain commercial control
What We’re Looking For
- Background in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Surveying, ideally contractor-side
- Currently operating as a Senior QS, Commercial Lead, or Project Commercial Manager
- Strong practical understanding of JCT contracts (NEC exposure beneficial)
- Comfortable managing commercial risk, correspondence, and contractual issues independently
- Experience delivering residential or mixed-use projects
- Confident negotiator with a pragmatic, delivery-focused approach
- Experience working alongside external cost consultants or claims advisors is useful but not essential.
Why This Contract Works
- Clear scope on live, active projects
- Contractor-side decision-making, not consultancy oversight
- Opportunity to stabilise, protect, and improve commercial outcomes
- Well-suited to QSs who enjoy owning the detail
Interested? Apply with your CV or get in touch for a confidential contract discussion.
Commercial Lead / Senior Quantity Surveyor in London employer: Key Talent Solutions
Contact Detail:
Key Talent Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Lead / Senior Quantity Surveyor in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals at events or online. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want you to show off your knowledge about their work in residential and mixed-use projects. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Senior Quantity Surveyor, you’ll need to be confident in discussions. We suggest role-playing with a friend or mentor to get comfortable with those tricky conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can give you an edge. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Lead / Senior Quantity Surveyor in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Commercial Lead / Senior Quantity Surveyor role. Highlight your experience with JCT contracts and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially in residential or mixed-use settings.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your hands-on experience in commercial management and how you’ve successfully managed cashflow and contractual issues in past projects.
Showcase Your Negotiation Skills: Since this role requires strong negotiation skills, be sure to include examples of successful negotiations you've led. Whether it's subcontract procurement or managing variations, let us know how you’ve made a difference 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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen and ready to take the next step with us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Key Talent Solutions
✨Know Your JCT Contracts
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of JCT contracts before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific clauses and how you've managed them in past projects. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in managing cashflow, valuations, and cost reports. Use real-life scenarios where you successfully navigated commercial risks or improved margins. This will demonstrate your hands-on approach and ability to deliver results.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that require you to think on your feet. They might ask how you'd handle a specific situation regarding variations or change control. Practise articulating your thought process clearly and confidently, as this reflects your problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with the Project Team Mindset
Since this role involves working closely with project teams, express your enthusiasm for collaboration. Share experiences where you’ve supported site teams or negotiated with subcontractors. This will show that you’re a team player who values communication and partnership.