At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-value grounds maintenance contract across Surrey and London.
- Company: Specialist grounds maintenance contractor with a focus on client relationships.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car/van allowance, and performance bonus up to £4,500.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a mix of site visits and remote work.
- Why this job: Make a visible impact on service delivery and client confidence.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership, planning, and client relationship management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Our client, a specialist grounds maintenance contractor, is seeking an experienced Contract/Area Manager to take ownership of a high-value, multi-site housing association contract spanning Surrey and London. This is a pivotal hire for the business, offering full account leadership across a c.£1.3m contract and the chance to make an immediate, visible impact on service delivery and client relationship recovery.
The contract spans around 15 teams and 30 operatives, including subcontractor resource, delivering fortnightly grounds maintenance visits across the client's housing stock.
The right candidate will bring structure, accountability, and credible on-the-ground leadership to stabilise performance, rebuild client confidence, and set the account up for long-term growth.
Responsibilities include:
- Full ownership of service delivery, KPIs, and contract compliance across all three lots.
- Direct line management of two supervisors, with indirect oversight of resources, scheduling, and performance management to close the current visit-compliance gap.
- Acting as the senior client contact, rebuilding and maintaining a strong working relationship at a critical point in the contract lifecycle.
- Site visits and inspections across both Surrey and London (London coverage required at least weekly).
- Budget oversight and commercial performance against contract targets.
- Driving a firm, fair, performance-led culture among operational teams.
Requirements:
- Full UK driving licence (non-negotiable).
- Strong, credible people and performance management skills, comfortable managing operatives who test boundaries.
- Excellent planning, scheduling, and organisational capability.
- Demonstrated success rebuilding or stabilising an underperforming contract.
- Strong client relationship management experience, particularly with demanding stakeholders.
The role is largely site-based (4 days per week across Surrey and London), with 1 day working from home. Regular travel to the London lots is required. Company car, van, or car allowance and a ~10% performance bonus (up to £4,500), linked to contract delivery.
Contracts Manager, Senior Manager in Surrey employer: Signet Recruitment and Retention
Join a dynamic and supportive team as a Contracts Manager in the thriving grounds maintenance sector, where your leadership will directly influence service delivery across Surrey and London. Our company fosters a performance-driven culture, offering competitive benefits including a generous car allowance and performance bonus, alongside opportunities for professional growth and development. With a focus on rebuilding client relationships and enhancing operational efficiency, you'll find a rewarding environment that values your expertise and commitment.
Contact Details:
Signet Recruitment and Retention Recruitment Team
