Commercial Manager - HV & Renewables

AE Partners; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy solutions provider seeks a Commercial Manager to oversee the financial and contractual aspects of high voltage and renewable projects. Candidates should have over 5 years of relevant experience, strong knowledge of commercial contract law, and excellent negotiation skills. This is a pivotal role ensuring profitability and compliance throughout the project lifecycle. Competitive salary and opportunities for professional development are offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a Commercial Manager or Quantity Surveyor role within HV, renewables, utilities, or infrastructure.
• Strong knowledge of NEC and/or JCT contracts.
• Experience managing large-scale infrastructure or energy projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead all commercial aspects of HV and renewable energy projects.
• Manage and negotiate contracts, subcontracts, and supply agreements.
• Conduct commercial risk assessments and implement mitigation strategies.

Skills

Financial acumen

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Strategic thinking

Attention to detail

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Law, or related field

Job description

Our client's services include the design, supply, installation and maintenance of commercial photovoltaic solar panel systems, solar farms, battery energy storage systems and wind turbines, working across many sectors, including utilities, local government, commercial property, agriculture, hospitality, tourism and universities.

Overview

Role Overview

They are seeking a commercially astute and highly driven Commercial Manager to oversee the financial and contractual aspects of HV and renewables projects. The ideal candidate will play a pivotal role in maximising profitability, managing risk, and ensuring contractual compliance across the project lifecycle - from tender through to project completion.

This role requires someone with strong knowledge of the construction or utilities industry (preferably HV or renewables), commercial contract law, and experience with NEC or similar contracts.

Responsibilities

• Lead all commercial aspects of HV and renewable energy projects (typically 11kV to 132kV).
• Manage and negotiate contracts (e.g., NEC, JCT, FIDIC), subcontracts, and supply agreements.
• Conduct commercial risk assessments and ensure appropriate risk mitigation strategies are in place.
• Support the bid and tender process, including reviewing ITTs, pricing, and contract terms.
• Work closely with the Project Management, Engineering, and Finance teams to monitor project performance and profitability.
• Manage variations, change control, and compensation events in line with contract requirements.
• Prepare accurate monthly CVRs (Cost Value Reconciliations), cash flow forecasts, and final accounts.
• Oversee and support the management of subcontractor payments and valuations.
• Ensure all projects comply with legal and contractual obligations.
• Provide commercial insight and reporting to senior management for strategic decision-making.
• Identify opportunities for commercial improvement and contribute to business growth strategies.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

• Proven experience (5+ years) in a Commercial Manager, Quantity Surveyor, or similar role within HV, renewables, utilities, or infrastructure sectors.
• Strong knowledge of NEC and/or JCT contracts.
• Demonstrable experience in managing large-scale infrastructure or energy projects.
• Strong financial acumen and analytical skills.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Degree or equivalent qualification in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Law, or related field.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to project sites when required.

Desirable:

• Experience within the renewable energy industry (e.g., solar, wind, battery storage).
• MRICS or similar professional accreditation.
• Experience working with DNOs or ICPs.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and commercial awareness
• Risk management and problem-solving
• Contractual and legal understanding
• Leadership and team collaboration
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Time management and prioritisation skills