At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead critical construction projects for a cleaner energy future.
- Company: Join National Grid, a leader in sustainable energy infrastructure.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, pension scheme, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for team development and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the transition to net zero energy.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading high-value construction projects and strong project management skills.
The predicted salary is between 66000 - 81000 £ per year.
About the role
At National Grid, we're accelerating a clean, secure and affordable energy future. Within our Interconnectors business, we deliver world‑class infrastructure that connects energy systems across borders and plays a vital role in enabling the transition to net zero. We're now looking for a Senior Construction Manager to join our Interconnector Construction Directorate, leading the delivery of critical Capex projects on the IFA interconnector. This is a key leadership role where you'll take ownership of complex construction projects, ensuring delivery to time, cost and quality, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and performance. You'll operate in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment, with the autonomy to use your expertise to drive projects forward and overcome challenges as they arise. The role is based on site at Sellindge, Kent and you would need to be within an hour's commute for the role. The role comes with a job requirement car and there will be occasional travel to other sites.
What you'll do
- Lead the delivery of construction projects aligned to the IFA lifetime strategy
- Manage projects end‑to‑end, ensuring milestones are achieved and delivery remains on track
- Take accountability for project performance across safety, quality, cost and schedule
- Lead and motivate teams, creating a high‑performing and collaborative culture
- Work closely with supply chain partners, including contractors and designers
- Partner with Asset & Operations teams within a live HVDC interconnector environment
- Mentor and develop team members, supporting long‑term capability growth
- Manage significant Capex budgets, ensuring delivery against financial targets
- Drive efficiencies while maintaining scope and quality
- Provide appropriate technical and commercial challenge to ensure optimal delivery outcomes
- Champion a strong safety culture, aligned to our Safe to Say ethos
- Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental and CDM regulations
- Promote best practice, visibility and open communication across project teams
What you'll need
- Proven experience leading construction or infrastructure projects
- Strong project management capability across multiple, high‑value projects
- Deep knowledge of CDM, safety and environmental standards
- Experience managing contracts and procurement through the full project lifecycle
- Strong financial and cost control experience
- Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to collaborate and remove blockers
- A track record of developing teams and delivering high‑quality outcomes
- Strong analytical and decision‑making capability
What you’ll get
A competitive salary between £66,000 – £81,000 per annum – dependent on capability. As well as your base salary, you will receive a bonus based on personal and company performance and a competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. You will also have access to a number of flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, salary sacrifice car and technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.
More Information
This role closes on 7th July 2026 at 23:59, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates – we make appointments purely on merit, assessed against objective selection criteria. We support flexible working and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process should you have any physical or mental impairment which may affect your ability to participate in the process. Please note that in most cases, National Grid is unable to offer sponsorship for employment under the UK points-based immigration system. As such, applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK without requiring sponsorship now or in the future under the UK points-based immigration system. However, in exceptional circumstances where there is a clear and demonstrable need for specialist skills that cannot be sourced from the local labour market, National Grid may consider offering sponsorship. All applications are welcome from candidates who meet these requirements, regardless of race, nationality, or ethnic origin.
Senior Construction Manager in Ashford employer: National Grid
At National Grid, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, particularly for those in the Senior Construction Manager role. Our dynamic work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, while our commitment to employee growth is evident through mentorship opportunities and a strong focus on safety and performance. Located in Sellindge, Kent, we offer competitive salaries, generous benefits, and a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusivity, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the energy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Construction Manager in Ashford
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like National Grid, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Senior Construction Manager at National Grid.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Construction Manager in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Grid
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
