Construction Director

Watkin Jones; London; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading residential development company in London seeks a Construction Director to oversee multiple project deliveries, ensuring efficiency and quality standards. This role requires proven leadership in construction, strong communication skills, and the ability to mentor teams. Benefits include professional growth support, an annual bonus, and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Discretionary annual bonus

Health cash plan

Life insurance

Flexible working from home

Discounted gym memberships

Company car or allowance

Exclusive shopping discounts

Contributory pension scheme

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in construction delivery, ideally across multiple project types.
• Strong commercial mindset and ability to inspire teams.
• Experience in the build-to-rent or student accommodation sector is a bonus.

Responsibilities

• Provide clear, timely project updates and control budgets.
• Lead construction activities across multiple sites.
• Coach and mentor Construction Managers and Project Managers.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Relationship-building

Education

SMSTS certification

First Aid certification

Scaffolding certification

CSCS Card

Job description

Overview

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Qualifications

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.

Desirable experience

• 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.

Required certificates / cards

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

Benefits

• 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.