At a Glance
- Tasks: Negotiate and manage contracts for exciting construction projects across the UK.
- Company: Join Watkin Jones, a leading developer with a rich history and future-focused vision.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days of leave, hybrid work, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a company committed to sustainable development and vibrant communities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-growth role within a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in construction contract management and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Within our Refresh and Delivery Partnerships division at Watkin Jones, we are looking to appoint a Contracts Manager to join the team. Following the recent securing of six contract wins, with a combined value of approximately £60m across the Refresh and Delivery Partnerships divisions, we are looking to appoint a Contracts Manager to join a progressive and forward-thinking team during a time of significant growth.
The Contracts Manager plays a pivotal role in negotiating, drafting, reviewing, and managing business contracts, ensuring that terms and conditions are beneficial for the company. This role involves working closely with clients, project managers, and legal teams to ensure that construction projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required standards. The Contracts Manager is also responsible for driving business opportunities, managing bids, and overseeing the administration of contracts throughout the project lifecycle. Due to the nature of this role, there will be the requirement of travel on a national basis.
Key responsibilities:
- Client & Business Development – Build strong client relationships, secure new projects, and represent the business commercially.
- Bids & Tenders – Lead bid submissions, develop programmes, and support successful tender outcomes.
- Contract Management – Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, ensuring robust provisions around latent defects, risk allocation, and liability.
- Project Delivery – Manage multiple refurbishment projects, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to required standards.
- Risk & Compliance – Monitor contractual performance, manage defects liability periods, and ensure compliance with regulatory and contractual obligations.
- Site & Stakeholder Coordination – Act as a key liaison across clients, site teams, and consultants to resolve issues and maintain delivery quality.
What we’re looking for:
- Strong experience in construction contract management.
- Proven ability to manage contractual risk and latent defect exposure.
- Commercially astute with experience in bids, negotiation, and project delivery.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?
Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in-build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7bn of assets under management. Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development.
At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:
- Work-Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), hybrid working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
- Wellbeing: Access to ‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform.
- Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
- Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.
This is an opportunity to take on a high-impact role within a forward-thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment.
Contracts Manager - Construction in City of Westminster employer: Watkin Jones PLC
At Watkin Jones, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises professional growth and work-life balance. With generous benefits including a discretionary annual bonus, flexible working options, and a commitment to employee development, you will thrive in a dynamic environment that values your contributions. Join us in shaping the future of residential living while enjoying a rewarding career with a market leader in the construction industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager - Construction in City of Westminster
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Watkin Jones PLC, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Contracts Manager - Construction at Watkin Jones PLC.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager - Construction in City of Westminster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Watkin Jones PLC
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
