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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee contracts for exciting construction projects, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Company: Established construction firm with 50+ years of experience in complex projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, employee ownership, and a focus on teamwork and community.
- Why this job: Join a team that values your input and empowers you to make impactful decisions.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in contract management, strong negotiation skills, and a relevant qualification.
- Other info: Dynamic work culture focused on professional growth and positive community impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
About the Company
We are a well-established construction business with over 50 years’ experience, delivering complex construction projects across Yorkshire and the North East. Working as part of a wider group, we specialise in technically challenging sectors — including healthcare, education, food production, commercial refurbishment, and offsite manufacturing. Our strength lies in our ability to deliver safely and efficiently in live, occupied environments, such as active hospitals or food production facilities.
Role Purpose
As Contracts Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the contractual side of construction projects, ensuring commercial performance, risk management, and contract compliance. You will:
- Lead contract administration and management from award through to project close-out.
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to our quality and safety standards.
- Be a key interface with clients, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders to protect the company’s interests and strengthen relationships.
Key Responsibilities
- Contract Management & Administration
- Negotiate and manage contract terms with clients and subcontractors.
- Handle variations, claims, and contractual risk in collaboration with the commercial and project teams.
- Ensure accurate and timely contract documentation, including procurement, purchase orders, and change orders.
- Commercial Performance & Budget Control
- Prepare and manage project budgets, cashflows, and cost forecasts.
- Monitor financial performance against contract milestones.
- Implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or compliance.
- Risk & Compliance
- Identify and mitigate contractual and commercial risks throughout the project lifecycle.
- Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and company policies, including health & safety, quality, and environmental standards.
- Stakeholder Management
- Act as the main point of contact for clients regarding contractual matters.
- Develop and maintain strong working relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants.
- Provide contractual advice and support to internal teams (site managers, QS, design, etc.).
Person Specification / Skills & Experience
- Significant experience (ideally 5+ years) in contract or commercial management in the construction industry.
- Strong knowledge of construction contract types (e.g., NEC, JCT, or other standard forms).
- Excellent commercial acumen, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis skills.
- Proven ability to assess and mitigate risk.
- Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Leadership skills – able to influence cross-functional teams.
- Proficient in contract management systems and Microsoft Office (particularly Excel).
- Relevant construction qualification (Degree / HNC / HND) or commercial qualification preferred.
- Full UK driving licence (for occasional site visits).
Culture & Values
- You will be joining a business that values teamwork, professionalism, and doing the right thing.
- As part of a business within an employee ownership trust, you’ll be working in a company with a “co-owner” mindset, where people are empowered to make decisions, contribute, and share in success.
- We care deeply about our people, our communities, and the built environment — aiming to leave a positive legacy with every project.
Contracts Manager employer: Orchard Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Contact Detail:
Orchard Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend construction events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your past projects and achievements in contract management. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you can bring to the table and set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and how you can contribute to their success. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in risk management and stakeholder engagement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our company. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Contracts Manager role. Highlight your experience in contract management and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for us. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your commercial acumen and stakeholder management skills.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you’ve successfully managed contracts, budgets, or risks in previous roles. We love seeing results!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Orchard Recruitment Solutions Ltd
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of different construction contract types like NEC and JCT. Be ready to discuss how you've managed contracts in the past, including any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Acumen
Prepare examples that highlight your budgeting and financial analysis skills. Think about times when you've successfully managed project budgets or implemented cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality.
✨Demonstrate Strong Stakeholder Management
Be ready to talk about your experience in building relationships with clients, subcontractors, and internal teams. Share specific instances where your communication and negotiation skills made a difference in a project's success.
✨Highlight Your Risk Management Experience
Discuss how you've identified and mitigated risks in previous projects. Prepare to explain your approach to ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards, as well as how you’ve handled variations and claims.
