Commercial Director - Housebuilding in Peterborough

Potensis is pleased to partner with a trusted and respected Residential Developer who have developed an enviable reputation for consistently delivering high end, complex and design led projects for over 20 years. We are looking for a Commercial Director who will work closely with the development, sales, finance, and construction teams to ensure that commercial goals align with the businesses overall vision, cost targets, and delivery schedules.

Responsibilities

• Commercial Strategy and Planning: Define and execute a comprehensive commercial strategy that aligns with the project’s financial objectives and long-term goals. Drive value engineering processes to optimize costs without compromising on quality.
• Budgeting and Forecasting: Oversee project budgets, cost forecasts, and financial reporting, ensuring alignment with expected cash flows and profit margins. Continuously monitor budget performance to identify areas for improvement and risk.
• Cost Control and Procurement: Direct procurement activities, negotiating contracts with suppliers, subcontractors, and consultants to secure the best value. Implement robust cost control measures to manage expenses and achieve commercial targets.
• Contract Management: Lead contract negotiation, execution, and management, ensuring that all parties adhere to agreed terms and conditions. Resolve contractual disputes swiftly and maintain constructive relationships with key partners.
• Risk Management: Identify and assess potential commercial risks, developing mitigation strategies to minimize financial exposure. Maintain oversight of compliance with legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with internal teams, investors, and external partners to communicate commercial performance and project status. Build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders to foster trust and alignment on key objectives.
• Leadership and Team Development: Manage and mentor the commercial team, promoting a high-performance culture. Develop team capabilities in line with best practices, industry standards, and the organization’s growth strategy.

Key Requirements

• The ability to maximise the financial effectiveness and profitability of the business through diligent application of agreed contractual and commercial practices, with the careful management of risk from tender stage through to final completion. This will include strategy, main and subcontract tender procurement, risk management, pre and post contract, margin improvement and people development.
• Strong financial acumen, with a proven track record of successful cost management, forecasting, and budgeting on complex, large-scale projects, ideally with a focus on high-end residential or mixed-use developments.
• Expertise in procurement, contract negotiation, and management, with a robust understanding of UK legal and regulatory requirements.
• Exceptional stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence and align diverse interests.
• A strategic mindset, coupled with a hands‑on approach to problem‑solving and decision‑making.
• Experience leading and developing high‑performing teams in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment.

The role would suit an existing Commercial Director who has gained experience within a residential developer who has a consistent record of delivery. This role is offered on a full time, interim basis. There is a potential opportunity for relocation assistance if required.