Contracts Manager (Water) – South East | Hybrid (Falmer / Remote)
An opportunity to lead a major wastewater framework (Lot 2) across the western area of the region, steering projects from pre‑construction through detailed design, construction, commissioning and handover.

The Opportunity
You’ll join the senior delivery team on a regulated water sector programme (Lot 2 – wastewater), taking end‑to‑end accountability for successful delivery in the western sector. Working closely with internal pre‑construction, operations and commercial colleagues—as well as the client’s capital delivery and wider stakeholder groups—you’ll drive efficient, safe delivery and the agreement of target costs and programmes.

Location: Falmer / hybrid
Working hours: 40 per week

What You’ll Be Doing

Own delivery outcomes for the Lot 2 projects in your region, from mobilisation to handover (PLM stages 5–8). Lead pre‑construction inputs: pricing, programme development and risk allocation for client submissions; facilitate agreement of proposed target costs. Champion best practice by embedding GIRI principles into daily, weekly and monthly routines. Assure Safety, Health, Environment and Security standards and meet agreed targets. Shape procurement strategy to minimise programme risk, identify economies of scale and enable early procurement. Develop and manage the supply chain, nurturing relationships to optimise performance and client value. Monitor project KPIs and ensure timely internal/external reporting of cost and programme performance. Lead people and resources: build an efficient resourcing plan, recruit talent, line‑manage Project Managers and deputise for the Project Director when required. Own risk management: coordinate comprehensive strategies and mitigation plans to de‑risk projects during pre‑construction, ensuring appropriate risk provisions with the client. Coordinate across functions to keep programmes on track and continuously scan for industry best practice and innovation, including RDEC opportunities.

What You’ll Bring

- Proven leadership: trusted, focused, collaborative; track record of managing major delivery portfolios.
- Deep understanding of design & construction, translating client requirements into solutions that meet quality, budget, programme and sustainability targets while achieving sustainable margins.
- Strong NEC contracting knowledge and experience with regulated clients—particularly within the water industry.
- Project management proficiency and confidence with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Outlook. Resilient negotiating skills and a full UK driving licence.

How You Work
You’ll exemplify a collaborative style—communicating clearly, inviting ideas and keeping teams aligned to long‑term aims; be trusted—prioritising safety, community impact and the environment; and stay focused—embracing change, setting stretching yet realistic goals and driving quality and efficiency. You’ll also promote team wellbeing and foster an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued.

What you need to do now

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