Commercial Lead

Ardmac; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction specialist is seeking a Commercial Lead to oversee all pre- and post-contract commercial activities across the UK. The role demands strategic leadership to protect the company's financial interests, while also mentoring and developing commercial resources. Candidates should have substantial experience in construction and a degree in a related field. This position offers a chance to make a significant impact on project delivery and profitability.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a senior commercial role within construction.
• Strong leadership, negotiation and client relationship skills.
• Experience working across multiple live projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead all commercial elements of pre- and post-contract activities across multiple projects.
• Oversee contract procurement and risk profiling for each project.
• Safeguard the contractual and financial position in line with company policies.
• Provide commercial guidance and support across the Business Unit.

Skills

Advanced understanding of subcontract and material procurement

Strong knowledge of claims preparation

Proven financial and commercial reporting capability

Ability to develop and execute commercial strategies

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Working knowledge of construction industry standards

Understanding of WRA and commercial compliance requirements

Education

Degree or professional qualification in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management

Job description

Commercial Lead – UK

Who We Are:

We are an award-winning international construction specialist delivering complex, high-value workspaces and technical environments. For over 40 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation in construction, employing the brightest minds and the most advanced technologies. Our mission is to consistently provide the ultimate solution for high-value working environments through continuous investment in our people, technology, and processes.

About the Job

We are currently seeking an experienced Commercial Lead to oversee all pre- and post-contract commercial activities across our Business Unit throughout the UK. The successful candidate will play a strategic role in protecting Ardmac’s financial and contractual position, driving profitability, and supporting project delivery teams through strong commercial governance and leadership. This role requires a commercially astute individual with the ability to lead, mentor, and develop commercial resources while fostering key client and supply chain relationships.

Responsibilities

Commercial Leadership:

• Lead all commercial elements of pre- and post-contract activities across multiple projects.
• Oversee contract procurement and ensure risk profiling is completed for each project.
• Safeguard Ardmac’s contractual and financial position in alignment with company policies and procedures.
• Provide weekly cash flow forecasts for each project to the Commercial Director and Finance Director.
• Ensure timely and accurate financial close-out on all projects.
• Implement appropriate commercial strategies to address changes in project circumstances post-commencement.
• Manage dispute resolution activity as required.
• Work closely with Project Delivery Teams to maintain contractual compliance regarding notices, claims and delays.
• Ensure effective record keeping to substantiate Ardmac’s contractual entitlements.

Operational & Departmental Support:

• Provide commercial guidance, training and leadership across the Business Unit.
• Support the continuous upskilling of commercial teams and site personnel.
• Promote consistency, integrity and best practice within the commercial function.
• Develop and strengthen relationships with clients, professional teams and the supply chain.

Qualifications and Experience

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Advanced understanding of subcontract and material procurement.
• Strong knowledge of claims preparation, dispute resolution and contractual frameworks.
• Proven financial and commercial reporting capability.
• Ability to develop and execute commercial strategies to maximise value and cashflow.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Working knowledge of construction industry standards, safety and quality procedures.
• Understanding of WRA and commercial compliance requirements.

Experience & Education:

• Significant experience in a senior commercial role within construction.
• Degree or professional qualification in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or similar (preferred).
• Strong leadership, negotiation and client relationship skills.
• Experience working across multiple live projects.

People Responsibilities

• Lead and support development of commercial staff within the Business Unit.
• Manage disciplinary and performance procedures with HR where required.
• Conduct annual and interim performance reviews.
• Identify skills gaps and training needs to ensure continuous development.
• Recommend salary reviews and bonus awards in accordance with company policy.