Construction Contracts Lead (NEC Expert & Disputes)

Gatwick Airport Limited; Gatwick; Hybrid; GBP 88,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5% Welcome Bonus

Flex Allowance

Performance bonus

Healthcare

Life insurance

Staff parking

Discounted rail travel

Share matching scheme

Job summary

Gatwick Airport Limited is seeking a Contracts Lead – Construction to shape contract strategy for major airport projects. You will drive governance, support procurement, and partner with legal specialists to maximise value and reduce risk in a live operational environment.

The role is office-first with three days in the office and two days remote, aligning with business needs. A degree in Construction Law or related field and NEC knowledge are essential, with experience in major infrastructure

Qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent) in Construction Law, Commercial Management, or related field.
• Deep knowledge of NEC contracts and construction law.
• Proven experience managing contract claims and disputes.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Experience supporting major infrastructure or capital programmes.
• Commercially astute with a track record of delivering against targets.
• Professional membership (e.g. RICS) is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead contract expertise across the Construction team with a focus on NEC.
• Own and improve Gatwick's standard contract templates.
• Provide assurance that contracts are clear, robust, and fit for purpose.
• Manage commercial queries, disputes, and escalations.
• Lead dispute resolution processes and meetings for optimal outcomes.
• Collaborate with the Construction Lawyer on governance and compliance.
• Advise on contract approaches to procurement strategy per project.
• Negotiate rates with consultants and contractors for best value.
• Deliver training and share best practices across programme teams.
• Identify opportunities to drive cost and programme efficiencies.
• Foster collaboration across supply chain to reduce disputes and add value.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Contract strategy

Education

Degree in Construction Law or related field

Job description

Gatwick Airport Limited is seeking a Contracts Lead – Construction to shape contract strategy for major airport projects. You will drive governance, support procurement, and partner with legal specialists to maximise value and reduce risk in a live operational environment.

The role is office-first with three days in the office and two days remote, aligning with business needs. A degree in Construction Law or related field and NEC knowledge are essential, with experience in major infrastructure