At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead contract negotiations and manage construction projects with a focus on risk and compliance.
- Company: Join Watkin Jones Group, a leading developer with a rich history and future-focused vision.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid working, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-stakes role while shaping the built environment.
- Qualifications: Strong experience in construction contract management and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Contract Manager to lead the negotiation, delivery, and performance of construction contracts across refurbishment projects, with a strong focus on risk mitigation, latent defects, and contractual compliance. You will play a key role in protecting the business through robust contract management, ensuring all terms, particularly those relating to defects liability, warranties, and latent defect exposure are clearly defined, managed, and enforced 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, Senior Manager in Chester employer: Watkin Jones
Watkin Jones Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can thrive as a Contracts Manager. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, competitive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth, you'll be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to delivering high-quality residential projects across the UK. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the construction industry while enjoying a healthy work-life balance and a supportive culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager, Senior Manager in Chester
✨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, 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, Senior Manager at Watkin Jones.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager, Senior Manager in Chester
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
✨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!
