Construction Director

Watkin Jones; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK residential developer is seeking a Construction Director to lead a portfolio of projects across the country. This role requires strong leadership, communication skills, and a focus on operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have proven construction delivery experience and a passion for quality. Benefits include a discretionary bonus, flexible working, and professional growth opportunities.

Benefits

Discretionary annual bonus

Health cash plan

Life insurance

Discounted gym memberships

Company car or allowance

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in construction delivery.
• A passion for quality and customer care.
• The confidence to make informed decisions.

Responsibilities

• Provide timely project updates and control of budgets.
• Lead construction activities across multiple sites.
• Coach and mentor team members.

Skills

Leadership experience in construction

Communication skills

Relationship building

Risk management

Problem-solving

Education

SMSTS certificate

First Aid certificate

Scaffolding certificate

CSCS Card

Job description

Step Into a Leadership Role with Watkin Jones - Shape the Future of Residential Development.

Watkin Jones, the UK's leading name in residential development, is on the lookout for a talented and driven Construction Director to join our senior leadership team. As we continue to grow across the build-to-rent (BTR), co-living, and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) sectors, this is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of our business and deliver exceptional living spaces across the UK.

The Role:

Operating on a national scale, we're looking for someone who's comfortable working away from home as required (with expenses covered in line with company policy). As Construction Director, you will take the lead across your portfolio of projects, ensuring delivery is efficient, on‑budget, and aligned with our high standards.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing clear, timely project updates and maintaining control of budgets and timelines.
• Overcoming challenges with a proactive, solution‑focused approach.
• Leading construction activities across multiple sites, driving operational excellence.
• Coaching and mentoring Construction Managers, Project Managers, and wider teams.
• Building trusted relationships with internal stakeholders and subcontractors alike.
• Contributing to strategic planning while developing the skills and performance of your team.

About You:

We're looking for a confident and collaborative leader who thrives in a dynamic environment. Your ability to inspire and motivate teams, combined with a strong commercial mindset, will be key to your success.

You'll bring:

• Proven leadership experience in construction delivery, ideally across multiple project types.
• A passion for quality, customer care, and innovation.
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills at all levels.
• The confidence to make informed decisions and manage risk effectively.
• (Bonus) Experience in student accommodation or the build‑to‑rent sector.

What we'd love you to have:

• SMSTS certificate
• First Aid certificate
• Scaffolding certificate
• CSCS Card

Why join us?

At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here's what we can offer you:

• Professional Growth: Individual support for your career advancement.
• Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
• Work‑Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), flexible working from home, and discounted gym memberships.
• Wellbeing: Access to 'Your Wellbeing' programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform
• Benefits: Company car or allowance, exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.

About Us:

Watkin Jones Group is the UK's leading developer, builder, and manager of residential‑for‑rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000 PBAS beds and BTR units since inception across 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 20,000 units across 58 schemes, representing £3.2bn of assets under management.