Construction Contract Formulation Lead (NEC4)

United Utilities; England; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

26 days leave

Pension up to 14%

Bonus up to 10.5%

Healthcare plan

Discounts & wellbeing

EV scheme

Flexible hybrid

Job summary

United Utilities is seeking a Contract Formulation Professional to shape robust construction contracts, manage procurement and tender activities, and lead commercial risk management. The role involves working with Operations, Engineering, Finance, Legal and Regulatory teams in a hybrid, permanent capacity.

You will oversee contract strategy, negotiate terms, and ensure compliance with procurement regulations while delivering value across major infrastructure programmes in the North West.

Qualifications

• Significant experience developing and managing construction contracts, with strong working knowledge of NEC4 (highly desirable).
• Experience running tender processes and evaluating complex technical and commercial submissions.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills — able to influence, challenge and collaborate effectively.
• Solid understanding of regulated procurement and contract law.
• Commercial negotiation skills and the ability to balance risk, value and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the contract strategy, formulation, and QA of sourcing and contract documentation.
• Manage end-to-end tendering processes: review scopes, prepare data, issue packs, evaluate bids and recommend awards.
• Engage with internal teams and external partners to influence procurement decisions and protect UU’s interests.
• Identify, assess and mitigate commercial and contractual risks; ensure audit trails and documentation are complete.

Skills

Contract formulation

Tender management

Stakeholder management

NEC4 knowledge

Commercial negotiation

Job description

United Utilities is seeking a Contract Formulation Professional to shape robust construction contracts, manage procurement and tender activities, and lead commercial risk management. The role involves working with Operations, Engineering, Finance, Legal and Regulatory teams in a hybrid, permanent capacity.

You will oversee contract strategy, negotiate terms, and ensure compliance with procurement regulations while delivering value across major infrastructure programmes in the North West.