At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage project specifications and engage with architects and contractors in the South West.
- Company: Join Knauf, a global leader in construction materials with a values-led culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company car, bonus, and generous leave for community work.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in construction while building your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer-facing sales or specification roles in construction is essential.
- Other info: Enjoy excellent career growth opportunities and a dynamic team atmosphere.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55000 £ per year.
Knauf stands for opportunity. We know that opportunity looks different to each person and we are proud that we see opportunity in everyone. This exciting role within the Specification Team could be the perfect opportunity for you to build a unique career, in a values‑led culture with a clear purpose of making tomorrow a home for all of us. As a Group we are a global manufacturer of construction materials and our 43,500 team members in 90 countries across 320 sites provide a huge opportunity for anyone with ambition and energy. We value everyone's contribution equally and we ask that you bring your whole self to work, to enrich the business further, as together we achieve more in a safe and inclusive environment.
We’re hiring a Project Specification Manager (Drywall) to support the South West, reporting to the National Specification Director (South). The territory includes Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, Somerset, and Wiltshire.
Can you say yes? Do you have customer‑facing sales or specification experience in the construction or building materials sector? Can you effectively manage multiple projects and deadlines with strong time‑management skills? Do you bring a winning mindset and the ability to sell solutions to stakeholders across the value chain? If so we would love to see your application!
What you’ll be doing:
- As a Project Specification Manager in the South West, you will be responsible for specifying a range of Knauf Drywall systems and products.
- These specifications will be created with key architects and/or main contractors and will be key to Knauf’s strategy in creating specifications.
- The specifications for projects will be directed through our One CRM system, with your support ensuring they lead to secured orders by our convert team.
- As the ‘face of’ Knauf during the pre‑construction phases, you will engage with project stakeholders.
- You will serve as the link between customers and internal teams, providing critical data, feedback, and communication.
- Ultimately, your role is essential in strengthening Knauf's technical reputation by converting specifications into confirmed orders by the commercial team.
Responsibilities include:
- Act as the customer‑facing technical contact, working with designers, architects and main contractors to create specifications across Knauf's full drywall, fire protection and flooring portfolio.
- Prepare accurate specifications for systems and products, ensuring tracking from specification with handover to site delivery.
- Utilise Knauf values and various resources (ABI, supply chain partners, network) to identify, track, and convert project opportunities into specifications.
- Support architects, developers, contractors, and specifiers with bespoke detailing, minimising and managing company risk.
- Clearly communicate the value and impact of Knauf system solutions to all stakeholders in the value chain.
- Ensure a detailed handover to the commercial and on‑site project management team for proper support once specifications are secured.
- Provide cross‑functional support to the Project Specification Executives and the Project Technical Manager team to prioritise customer demand and service.
- Contribute to team and individual projects, including internal policies, staff council, and health & safety initiatives.
- Provide customer‑focused feedback into the innovation process for developing robust technical solutions.
- Be recognised as an expert in fire, acoustic, thermal, and structural fields relevant to Knauf's systems and products.
What we’d love for you to have:
- A construction‑related qualification and experience within a customer‑facing sales or specification role within construction.
- Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and conceptual skills, with knowledge of fire, acoustic, thermal, and structural principles.
- Flexibility to travel throughout the South West and Bristol Cardiff are key areas.
- Excellent time management, planning, and organisational abilities, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Skilled in reading technical drawings and developing solutions to challenges.
- In‑depth knowledge of construction stakeholders (Architects, Main Contractors and Sub Contractors), methods and market routes.
- Strong communication skills across all levels of the organisation.
We will provide:
- Around £50,000 - £55,000 + company car + 20% bonus
- Three paid days leave for community, charitable, or voluntary commitments.
- 7% employer pension contribution.
- Level 3 Westfield Cashplan Healthcare.
- Income Protection
- Access to a Reward & Benefits platform.
- Access to Employee Assistance Program (legal or medical advice).
- Life Assurance (x 4 basic salary).
- Cycle to Work Scheme and Tech Scheme.
What happens next? We appreciate that your time is precious and applying for a new job can be a lengthy process - so we have committed to replying to your application within three working days.
Project Specification Manager (South West) in Sittingbourne employer: Knauf
Contact Detail:
Knauf Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Specification Manager (South West) in Sittingbourne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the construction industry, especially those who work with Knauf or similar companies. Attend local events or webinars to make connections and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Knauf's products and values. Show that you understand their mission and how you can contribute to making tomorrow a home for all of us. Tailor your answers to reflect their culture!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Project Specification Manager. Highlight your customer-facing skills and ability to manage multiple projects effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Knauf team and contributing to their success.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Specification Manager (South West) in Sittingbourne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Project Specification Manager role. Highlight your customer-facing sales experience and any relevant construction qualifications to grab our attention!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with Knauf's values. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Project Management Skills: Since managing multiple projects is key for this role, provide examples of how you've successfully juggled deadlines and delivered results in past positions. We love seeing how you handle challenges!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly 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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Knauf
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on Knauf's products and systems, especially the drywall solutions. Familiarise yourself with their technical specifications and how they fit into the construction landscape. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to the team.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed multiple projects or engaged with stakeholders. Highlight your customer-facing experience in the construction sector and how it aligns with the responsibilities of a Project Specification Manager.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Since you'll be the 'face of' Knauf, it's crucial to demonstrate strong communication skills. Be ready to explain complex concepts in a way that resonates with architects and contractors.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about Knauf's values, culture, and future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.