Commercial Lead in Northampton

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Lead with a strong MEP (Mechanical, Electrical & Public Health) background to oversee all commercial and contractual aspects of a major data centre project in Northampton. Acting client-side, you will take ownership of cost management, procurement strategy, and commercial performance across MEP packages within a high-value, technically complex, mission-critical environment. This role is pivotal in ensuring robust cost control, value optimisation, and risk management throughout the full project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Commercial Leadership
  • Lead all commercial activities relating to MEP packages from pre-construction through to final account.
  • Act as the client’s commercial representative in dealings with contractors, consultants, and supply chain.
  • Provide strategic commercial input to support project delivery and business objectives.
• Cost Management & Control
  • Develop, manage, and report on MEP project budgets, forecasts, and cost plans.
  • Monitor expenditure against budget and identify risks, opportunities, and cost-saving initiatives.
  • Review and challenge contractor cost submissions, valuations, and change requests.
• Procurement & Contract Strategy
  • Support development and implementation of procurement strategies for MEP packages.
  • Lead tendering processes, including preparation of tender documentation, evaluation, and award recommendations.
  • Advise on appropriate contract forms and commercial terms.
• Contract Administration
  • Oversee administration of MEP contracts, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.
  • Manage variations, claims, and dispute resolution processes.
  • Ensure robust change control procedures are implemented and maintained.
• Risk & Value Management
  • Identify, assess, and manage commercial risks across MEP scopes.
  • Lead value engineering and cost optimisation initiatives without compromising quality or performance.
  • Provide commercial input into design development and technical decision-making.
• Stakeholder Management
  • Work closely with project managers, design teams, and construction teams to ensure alignment on commercial matters.
  • Liaise with external consultants, cost managers, and contractors.
  • Provide clear and accurate reporting to senior client stakeholders.
• Reporting & Governance
  • Produce regular commercial reports, including cost/value reconciliations, forecasts, and risk registers.
  • Ensure transparency and governance across all commercial activities.
  • Support project audits and ensure compliance with internal controls and procedures.
• Project Close-Out
  • Lead agreement of final accounts for MEP packages.
  • Ensure all commercial matters are concluded in a timely and effective manner.
  • Capture lessons learned and support continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Experience
  • Significant experience in a commercial/quantity surveying role with a strong focus on MEP packages.
  • Proven track record on large-scale construction projects, ideally data centres or other mission-critical environments.
  • Experience in a client-side or consultancy role is highly desirable.
• Technical Knowledge
  • Strong understanding of MEP systems and their commercial drivers.
  • In-depth knowledge of contract forms (e.g., JCT, NEC) and commercial management practices.
  • Experience with cost planning, procurement, and contract administration.
• Qualifications
  • Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical preferred).
  • Professional accreditation (e.g., MRICS or equivalent) desirable.
• Skills
  • Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills.
  • Excellent analytical and financial management capabilities.
  • Ability to manage complex stakeholder environments.
  • High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Personal Attributes
  • Strategic thinker with a proactive approach.
  • Strong leadership and decision-making ability.
  • Resilient and able to operate in a fast-paced, high-value project environment.
  • Collaborative and solution-focused mindset.

Reporting To Project Director / Commercial Director

Location & Travel Primarily site-based in Northampton with occasional travel as required.

What We Offer Key client-side role on a flagship data centre project. Long-term 3-year project providing continuity and impact. Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunity to influence a major capital programme.