MSW (UK) Ltd is one of the UK's leading specialist contractors in structural floor and roof decking systems. Established in 1969, we deliver nationwide solutions including profiled steel decking, concrete floor slabs and complete composite flooring systems for major commercial, industrial and residential developments. Working with many of the UK's leading main contractors, we pride ourselves on delivering quality, safety, technical expertise and exceptional customer service. (LinkedIn)
Purpose of the Role
The Commercial Manager is responsible for leading all commercial activities across MSW's portfolio of projects. The role will ensure commercial performance, contractual compliance and profitable project delivery while supporting sustainable business growth.
Working closely with Directors, Estimating, Contracts Managers and Project Teams, the Commercial Manager will provide commercial leadership from contract award through to final account.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Management
- Lead the commercial management of multiple live construction projects.
- Maximise project profitability through effective cost management.
- Oversee project budgets, forecasts and commercial reporting.
- Manage applications for payment, valuations and cash flow.
- Negotiate and agree variations and final accounts.
- Monitor project margins and identify opportunities to improve commercial performance.
Contract Management
- Administer contracts including JCT and NEC forms.
- Review contract terms and identify commercial risks.
- Prepare contractual correspondence.
- Manage disputes, claims and commercial negotiations.
- Ensure contractual compliance across all projects.
Procurement
- Manage procurement of specialist subcontractors and suppliers.
- Negotiate subcontract agreements.
- Ensure procurement delivers best value while maintaining programme requirements.
- Produce accurate monthly cost reports.
- Review project forecasts with operational teams.
- Monitor cost-to-complete forecasts.
- Authorise subcontractor valuations and payments.
- Support year-end financial reporting.
Operational Support
- Work collaboratively with Contracts Managers to achieve commercial objectives.
- Attend project progress meetings.
- Provide commercial advice to operational teams.
- Assist with project risk management and programme reviews.
Leadership
- Develop commercial procedures and best practice.
- Support recruitment and staff development.
Client Relationships
- Develop long‑term relationships with clients, consultants and supply chain partners.
- Represent MSW professionally during commercial meetings.
- Support repeat business opportunities through excellent customer service.
Compliance
- Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures.
- Promote health, safety and quality standards.
- Maintain accurate commercial records and project documentation.
Essential Qualifications
- Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or a related construction discipline.
- Professional membership of RICS, CIOB or equivalent (preferred).
- Minimum 8–10 years' commercial experience within the construction industry.
- Experience working for a specialist subcontractor or principal contractor.
- Strong knowledge of structural steel, steel decking, reinforced concrete, or building envelope packages.
- Proven experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong understanding of JCT and NEC contracts.
- Successful track record in commercial negotiations and final account settlement.
- Experience leading commercial teams.
Knowledge & Skills
- Excellent commercial and financial acumen.
- Strong contractual knowledge.
- Excellent leadership and communication abilities.
- High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and commercial reporting systems.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving capability.
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
Personal Attributes
- Commercially focused with strong business acumen.
- Professional, ethical and accountable.
- Excellent relationship builder.
- Results‑driven with attention to detail.
- Proactive and solution‑oriented.
- Calm under pressure with excellent organisational skills.
Key Performance Indicators
- Recovery of variations and contractual entitlements.
- Timely agreement of final accounts.
- Team performance and development.
Why Join MSW?
- Join one of the UK's leading specialist structural flooring contractors.
- Work on landmark commercial and industrial projects nationwide.
- Be part of a highly experienced and respected team.
- Opportunity to influence commercial strategy and business growth.
- Competitive salary, company car or allowance, pension and ongoing professional development.