Commercial Manager

Cardo; Slough; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A building maintenance provider is looking for a Commercial Manager in Slough. This role involves overseeing budgets and contracts for social housing projects, ensuring compliance and delivering high-quality services. The ideal candidate has strong commercial management experience within construction, excellent negotiation skills, and a proven track record in budget management. Join a growing company that values diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Strong commercial management experience within construction, housing, or property sectors.
• Knowledge of social housing legislation, procurement rules, and contract law.
• Proven track record in budget management, cost control, and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage project and programme budgets.
• Oversee cost control processes and identify risks.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers and contractors.

Skills

Commercial management experience within construction

Knowledge of social housing legislation

Budget management

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Leadership skills

Education

Professional qualification (e.g., RICS, CIOB)

Job description

Overview

Cardo Group is a leading provider of building maintenance and improvement services to social housing providers and public bodies across the UK. With over 1,000 colleagues operating in South Wales, the South West, London, the South East, the Midlands, and Scotland, we continue to expand with ambitious plans for nationwide growth.

We deliver a comprehensive range of services tailored to the needs of our clients and their residents, including:

• Retrofit and energy efficiency upgrades
• Responsive repairs, voids, and disrepair (including damp & mould)
• Compliance and statutory servicing
• Refurbishment and project works
• Mechanical and electrical (M&E) services
• Commercial building maintenance
• Planned maintenance aligned to the Decent Homes Standard

At the heart of our work is a commitment to delivering high-quality services that improve homes and enhance lives.

We are equally dedicated to creating a positive and inclusive workplace. Diversity drives innovation, and inclusion builds stronger teams. At Cardo Group, every individual is valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We celebrate differences, champion equality, and ensure our workforce reflects the diverse communities we serve.

Together, we are building not only better projects – but a better, fairer future.

We are currently looking for a Commercial Manager to join our team in Slough.

The Commercial Manager will lead on all commercial, contractual, and financial aspects of social housing projects, ensuring value for money, compliance with regulations, and the delivery of high-quality housing services.

This role involves overseeing budgets, contracts, procurement, and cost management, while working closely with operational teams, contractors, and stakeholders to achieve sustainable outcomes for residents and the organisation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage project and programme budgets, forecasts, and financial reports.
• Oversee cost control processes, identifying risks, opportunities, and efficiencies.
• Ensure all works (repairs, reactive maintenance, compliance, voids, retrofit and planned works) are delivered within agreed budgets and timeframes.
• Provide accurate commercial analysis to support decision-making.
• Lead procurement strategies in line with public sector and social housing regulations.
• Negotiate and manage contracts with suppliers, contractors, and consultants.
• Ensure compliance with frameworks, funding requirements, and statutory obligations.
• Manage variations, valuations, and final accounts.
• Provide commercial expertise and guidance to project managers, surveyors, and operational teams.
• Act as the main point of contact for commercial matters with internal and external stakeholders.
• Build strong relationships with contractors, consultants, and housing partners.
• Mentor and support junior staff in commercial and financial practices.
• Ensure compliance with housing, health & safety, and financial regulations.
• Maintain accurate records in line with audit and reporting requirements.
• Support the organisation’s objectives for sustainability, resident satisfaction, and value for money.

Key Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Strong commercial management experience within construction, housing, or property sectors.
• Knowledge of social housing legislation, procurement rules, and contract law (e.g., JCT, NEC).
• Proven track record in budget management, cost control, and financial reporting.
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to analyse data and present clear commercial insights.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Desirable:

• Professional qualification (e.g., RICS, CIOB, MCIPS, or equivalent).
• Experience within a housing association, local authority, or main contractor delivering social housing.
• Knowledge of sustainability standards and funding frameworks (e.g., Decent Homes Standard, net zero requirements).

Why Join Cardo Group?

At Cardo Group, we are growing, evolving, and building a stable foundation for long-term success. When you join us, you become part of a forward-thinking company that values innovation, integrity, and inclusivity.

We are dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We recognise that diverse perspectives strengthens our business, drives innovation, and help us better serve the communities we work with.

Equity – We ensure fair opportunities for growth and success, removing barriers that may stand in the way.

Diversity – We embrace different backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints, knowing that diversity fuels creativity and progress.

Inclusion – We foster a culture where every team member has a voice and feels a true sense of belonging.

At Cardo Group, EDI is more than a policy, it’s part of who we are. We actively promote an environment where all individuals, regardless of race, gender, age, ability, sexual orientation, or background, can thrive.

Join us and be part of a company that values you—exactly as you are.