Commercial Lead - Fire Safety in Exeter

Commercial Lead - Fire Safety in Exeter

Exeter Full-Time 60000 - 75000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Ventro - Fire Compliance

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead commercial performance for fire safety projects and mentor a dynamic team.
  • Company: Join Ventro Group, a rapidly growing leader in fire safety and compliance.
  • Benefits: Stable office-based role with no travel disruption and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Supportive environment to build knowledge in passive fire protection.
  • Why this job: Take ownership of commercial success and make a real impact in fire safety.
  • Qualifications: 5+ years in commercial management with strong leadership and financial skills.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.

We’re looking for a commercially sharp leader to take ownership of the commercial function across our passive fire protection projects within the public and private sectors. This is not a traditional QS role. It is a commercial leadership position, office-based in Plymouth, with full accountability for margin performance, financial governance, and team development.

You will lead a team of commercial professionals, manage subcontractor procurement and negotiation, oversee valuations and invoicing, and provide the commercial insight that keeps our project delivery teams on track. If you’ve moved beyond pure quantity surveying into genuine commercial management and you’re looking for a role where you own the numbers and lead the people, this could be the right move.

What You’ll Do

  • Own the commercial performance of a portfolio of passive fire projects – gross profit, forecasting, cost control, and governance
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of approximately four commercial staff
  • Manage subcontractor procurement, negotiation, and commercial terms
  • Deliver monthly valuations and invoicing, targeting 80% completion by month-end
  • Report commercial performance including contribution margin, cash flow, and debtor management
  • Identify and pursue uplift and variation opportunities across the project portfolio
  • Provide commercial guidance and accurate cost reporting to Project Managers

What We’re Looking For

  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in a commercial management or senior QS role with team leadership responsibility
  • Strong track record in margin management, financial forecasting, and cost control
  • Experience of subcontractor negotiation and procurement within construction, building services, or a related sector
  • Confident managing and developing a commercial team
  • Degree or equivalent in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or Construction Economics preferred – equivalent commercial experience considered
  • Passive fire or fire compliance sector experience is welcomed but not essential – we will support the right commercial leader to build that knowledge

About Ventro Group

Ventro Group is a PE-backed fire safety and building compliance business operating across multiple brands including Ventro, Firntec, and HJS. We deliver passive fire protection, fire door installation and maintenance, façade remediation, and a range of compliance services across the UK. We are growing rapidly and our commercial function is central to that growth. This role is based at our Plymouth headquarters and is fully office-based – no site visits, no travel disruption. We offer a stable base from which to lead a commercially demanding and rewarding function.

How to Apply

Apply directly through LinkedIn or contact the Ventro Talent Acquisition team for a confidential conversation.

Commercial Lead - Fire Safety in Exeter employer: Ventro - Fire Compliance

Ventro Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Plymouth where you can lead and develop a talented commercial team within the fire safety sector. With a strong focus on employee growth and a commitment to financial governance, we provide our staff with the tools and support needed to excel in their careers while enjoying a stable office-based role free from travel disruptions. Join us to be part of a rapidly growing company that values your contributions and fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation.

Ventro - Fire Compliance

Contact Details:

Ventro - Fire Compliance Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Commercial Lead - Fire Safety in Exeter

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts and let them know you're on the hunt for a role. A personal connection can often get your foot in the door faster than a CV.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their projects, values, and recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the commercial leadership role. Highlight your achievements in margin management and team development to stand out.

Tip Number 4

Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team at Ventro Group.

We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Lead - Fire Safety in Exeter

Commercial Management
Margin Management
Financial Forecasting
Cost Control
Subcontractor Negotiation
Procurement
Team Leadership

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Commercial Lead role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant commercial management achievements to grab our attention!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved margin performance in the past.

Showcase Your Commercial Acumen:In your application, don’t forget to demonstrate your understanding of financial governance and cost control. We want to see how you’ve tackled similar challenges in previous roles and what strategies worked for you.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the quickest way for us to get your application and start the conversation about your future with us!

How to prepare for a job interview at Ventro - Fire Compliance

Know Your Numbers

As a Commercial Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of margin performance and financial governance. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the role, such as gross profit and cash flow management, so you can confidently discuss how you've successfully managed these in past projects.

Showcase Leadership Skills

This role involves leading a team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've mentored and developed commercial staff in previous positions. Highlight specific instances where your leadership made a positive impact on team performance or project outcomes.

Prepare for Procurement Discussions

Since managing subcontractor procurement is a key responsibility, think about your negotiation strategies and experiences. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully negotiated commercial terms and what approaches you take to ensure favourable outcomes for your projects.

Understand the Industry Landscape

While experience in the passive fire protection sector isn't essential, having a basic understanding of the industry will set you apart. Research current trends and challenges in fire safety and compliance, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to Ventro Group's growth in this area.