At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage playground and outdoor gym projects from start to finish, ensuring quality and safety.
- Company: Join Wicksteed Leisure, a trusted name in the UK play industry since 1876.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, company car, and professional development support.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team with a rich heritage and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities by creating inspiring outdoor spaces for children.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: South East England (home-based with regular site presence across the region)
Reports To: Managing Director
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time
Anticipated Start Date: 1st September 2026
About Wicksteed Leisure
Wicksteed Leisure has been designing and manufacturing children’s playgrounds, outdoor gyms and multi‑use games areas since 1918. Established in 1876, we are one of the most experienced and trusted names in the UK play industry. With over 100 years of delivering play solutions, we combine heritage craftsmanship with modern design to create safe, inspiring outdoor environments for communities across the country.
This position has arisen due to the retirement of a long‑standing team member — It is a rare opportunity to join a market‑leading company and make a significant role your own, managing a portfolio of projects across South East England as part of a UK‑wide contracts team.
The Role
As Contracts Manager you will take full ownership of project delivery — from sales handover through to site completion. You will lead subcontractor relationships, manage customer expectations, and ensure every installation is completed safely, on time, and within budget. You will be the primary point of contact for customers throughout the construction phase, embodying Wicksteed’s commitment to quality and service.
Key Responsibilities
- Project & Programme Management
- Own the end‑to‑end delivery of playground and outdoor gym contracts from order receipt to final sign‑off.
- Develop and maintain detailed project programmes, tracking progress and proactively managing risks to schedule and budget.
- Conduct and assist with site surveys, setting out sites in line with detailed drawings and client requirements.
- Ensure all installations comply with current BS EN standards and Wicksteed specifications.
- Subcontractor Management
- Identify, vet and onboard new subcontractors to support regional growth.
- Appoint, brief and supervise subcontractors carrying out installations and groundworks.
- Issue and manage all pre‑commencement documentation including Method Statements and Risk Assessments (RAMS).
- Monitor subcontractor performance and quality, taking corrective action where required.
- Client & Stakeholder Management
- Serve as the main client contact throughout the construction phase, providing regular updates via telephone, email, virtual and in‑person meetings.
- Manage and align client expectations at every stage, resolving issues promptly to maintain satisfaction.
- Collaborate closely with Area Sales Managers to ensure seamless handover and consistent client experience.
- Health, Safety & Compliance
- Maintain a thorough understanding of relevant health and safety legislation and best practice.
- Ensure full compliance with CDM Regulations 2015, including coordination of pre‑construction information and maintenance of the health and safety file.
- Prepare, review and issue RAMS, ensuring all site activities are conducted safely and legally.
- Uphold Wicksteed’s zero‑harm culture across all sites and subcontractor activities.
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- Proven experience in contracts or project management within construction, installation or a related outdoor environment.
- Strong working knowledge of construction practices including groundworks, levels, drainage and landscaping.
- Confident communicator with the ability to build trusted relationships with clients, subcontractors and internal teams.
- Skilled negotiator able to secure best value from contractors and suppliers without compromising quality or safety.
- Customer‑centric mindset with a consistent focus on satisfaction and quality outcomes.
- Competent user of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Full UK driving licence.
- Self‑motivated and able to work on own initiative, whilst contributing effectively as part of a wider UK contracts team.
- Strong work ethic with a proactive, can‑do approach to problem solving and delivery.
- Flexible and willing to travel across the South East, with overnight stays as required.
Desirable
- Previous experience in the playground, outdoor leisure or landscape construction sector.
- SMSTS qualification (support available to obtain if not already held).
- NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management or equivalent (support available to obtain).
- Enhanced DBS certificate (can be arranged on appointment).
What We Offer
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- KPI‑based performance bonus.
- Company car, mobile phone and laptop.
- Company pension scheme.
- Long service recognition awards.
- Investment in your professional development — qualifications supported from day one.
- The chance to join a genuinely iconic British brand with 150 years of heritage and a passionate, close‑knit team.
If you share our passion for creating outstanding play spaces and are ready to bring your project management expertise to a company that has been inspiring outdoor play for generations, we would love to hear from you.
Please send your CV, a covering letter, and your salary expectations to:
Wicksteed Leisure Limited is an equal opportunities employer. Applicants will not be excluded on the grounds of sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, race, marital status, disability, age, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.
Contracts Manager - South East England employer: Wicksteed Leisure Limited
Wicksteed Leisure is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for a Contracts Manager to lead impactful projects across South East England. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive benefits including a performance bonus and company car, and a supportive work culture that values safety and quality, you will thrive in a role that not only enhances your career but also contributes to creating inspiring outdoor environments for communities. Join a passionate team at a historic British brand dedicated to making a difference in children's play.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager - South East England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the industry, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Wicksteed Leisure and understanding their projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their values and the role of Contracts Manager. Show them you're not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were engaged and interested.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Contracts Manager role. It shows you're serious about joining Wicksteed Leisure and helps us keep track of your application more efficiently.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager - South East England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Contracts Manager role. Highlight your project management experience and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about creating outdoor spaces and how your experience makes you the perfect fit for Wicksteed. Keep it engaging and personal, so we can get to know you better.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Contracts Manager, communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to build relationships and manage client expectations. Share examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in past projects.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team. Let’s get started on this journey together!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wicksteed Leisure Limited
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the types of projects Wicksteed Leisure undertakes. Familiarise yourself with their playground and outdoor gym installations, as well as any recent projects they’ve completed. This will help you speak confidently about how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Contracts Manager, you'll be the main point of contact for clients. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with clients and subcontractors in the past. Highlight your ability to manage expectations and resolve issues promptly, as this is crucial for maintaining satisfaction.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities
Wicksteed values a proactive approach to problem-solving. Think of specific challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. Be ready to discuss your thought process and the steps you took to ensure project delivery was not compromised.
✨Understand Health and Safety Regulations
Since health and safety compliance is a key responsibility, brush up on relevant legislation and best practices. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in past projects, including your experience with RAMS and CDM Regulations. This will show that you take safety seriously and are ready to uphold Wicksteed’s zero-harm culture.
