Contracts Manager

Our tier 1 contractor is seeking a Contracts Manager on a permanent basis to join their Infra team in the Thames Valley region supporting Thames Water AMP8 projects. Our client are growing their team delivering AMP8 for Thames Water, to meet the greatly enlarged programme of works between 2025 and 2030. They have already been allocated circa £250m of projects in the delightful rural setting of the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire and Thames Valley regions - focused on wastewater treatment projects initially. Projects are a mix of civil, mechanical, electrical and ICA scopes and range between £2.5m to £25m in size, several of which will be on current AMP7 sites. This role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, excellence at client relationships and exceptional problem-solving skills. The Contracts Manager leads a portfolio of projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety. They provide leadership to the Project Managers, Site Management, Supervision and Engineering, as well as leadership of the technical forums; temporary works, lifting and site engineering. Engaging and developing the client relationship with Thames Water is a crucial part of the role. Key Responsibilities Provide strong operational, safety, health, wellbeing and environmental leadership to the project delivery team Develop and implement the company's project management strategies in alignment with business objectives (Including adoption of new IMS) Support framework improvement and divisional business development activities by providing technical expertise, support and ensuring feasibility of proposals Provide guidance and training to junior staff Recruit and develop project delivery teams that are recognised by stakeholders for excellence in delivery Oversee the planning, execution, and successful completion of construction projects Ensure adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards Support technical investigations, technical reviews, troubleshooting, and problem-solving for complex challenges. Ensure adherence to UK building regulations, health and safety laws, and company policies. Support implementation of quality management systems to uphold industry standards and accreditations. Monitor industry developments and regulatory changes, ensuring company practices remain compliant. Lead, mentor, and develop project teams, promoting continuous learning and professional development. Foster collaboration across departments, ensuring alignment between client, project delivery teams, supply chain and end users Build strong relationships with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders, serving as a trusted advisor. Develop and oversee project budgets, monitor expenditure, and identify opportunities for efficiency and cost‑saving measures. Support Identification of potential risks and support development of mitigation strategies to ensure project success Track project performance using key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement improvements as needed Drive innovation, ensuring adoption of best practices and emerging technologies in construction and engineering Promote sustainable practices and solutions in line with company goals and client requirements Encourage the adoption of digital tools such as A‑Site and the IMS, and other advanced technologies to enhance project efficiency Skills/experience/qualifications Experience in a similar Contract Management role for a main contractor Water sector experience essential Degree (or equivalent) in appropriate construction related subject Professional Qualification e.g. CIOB, CITB Level 3 Safety Course Appropriate CSCS Card High level of leadership and management skills Technical experience and knowledge High level of Commercial and Financial ability Excellent organisational and communication skill Benefits £80-90k depending on experience Car allowance 26 days annual leave (with the opportunity to buy or sell up to 3 days holiday) Private medical insurance for yourself (with the option to buy family cover) Life Assurance Defined contribution pension scheme matched up to 8% 2 days volunteering opportunities Flexible and Agile working (dependent on your role) Employee Assistance Programme Professional membership fees Flexible Benefits scheme #J-18808-Ljbffr