Commercial Management Trainee: Hands-On, Career-Building

Wates Group; Warrington; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Private medical insurance

Car allowance

Health & wellness programme

26 days holiday + bank holidays

Birthday Day off

Job summary

Wates Group invites applications for a Commercial Management Trainee to build a broad understanding of the commercial function within a major construction group. You will work with experienced professionals to gain hands‑on experience in managing project costs, financial performance, and commercial decision‑making throughout the project lifecycle.

The programme covers cost/value/risk balancing, stakeholder collaboration, and progression through a technical manual, workshops, placements, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with predicted or achieved classification of 2:2 or above by September 2027.

Responsibilities

• Build effective working relationships with colleagues, customers, subcontractors and supply chain partners.
• Assist in the preparation, management and analysis of commercial reports, contracts and financial documentation to support project delivery.
• Monitor project costs and performance, helping to ensure projects remain commercially successful and aligned with budget expectations.
• Develop an understanding of contracts and commercial processes, helping to protect the financial interests of the business.
• Support the management of subcontractor accounts, including reviewing applications, valuations and payments.
• Learn how to identify, assess and manage commercial risks and opportunities throughout the project lifecycle.
• Contribute to forecasting project costs, income and cash flow, helping teams make informed commercial decisions.
• Gain an understanding of how changes to project scope, programme or design can impact costs and project outcomes.
• Collaborate with stakeholders across the business to develop a well‑rounded understanding of commercial management within the industry.
• Gain the relevant technical and behavioural knowledge for your role, through the completion of a technical manual, behavioural workshops, short-term placements and relevant qualifications.

Education

Bachelor's degree 2:2 or above

Job description

Wates Group invites applications for a Commercial Management Trainee to build a broad understanding of the commercial function within a major construction group. You will work with experienced professionals to gain hands‑on experience in managing project costs, financial performance, and commercial decision‑making throughout the project lifecycle.

The programme covers cost/value/risk balancing, stakeholder collaboration, and progression through a technical manual, workshops, placements, and