Contract Development Manager

Watkin Jones Group; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK property development company is seeking a detail-oriented Contract Development Manager. This role involves overseeing contract terms for construction projects, fostering client relationships, and ensuring projects remain on track and within budget. Candidates should have proven experience in contract and project management, especially in the refurbishment sector. Join a firm with a rich history and commitment to high-quality rental homes.

Benefits

Discretionary annual bonus

Health cash plan

Life insurance

25 days annual leave

Agile working arrangements

Discounted gym memberships

Contributory pension scheme

Qualifications

• Proven experience in contract management and project management in the construction industry.
• Strong client-facing skills to drive business opportunities.
• Extensive experience in bid management and resource planning.

Responsibilities

• Overseeing negotiation and management of contracts.
• Collaborating with clients to understand their requirements.
• Managing multiple refurbishment projects valued between £1 million and £20 million.

Skills

Contract management

Project management

Client relationship management

Bid management

Negotiation skills

Interpersonal skills

Leadership capabilities

Education

Experience in construction industry

Job description

Are you a detail-oriented Contract Development Manager with a passion for client relationships and commercial success?

Watkin Jones is looking for a Contract Development Manager to join our BIP/Refresh division. In this pivotal role, you ll be responsible for overseeing the negotiation, drafting, and management of contract terms across a range of construction projects. Your expertise will help ensure projects are delivered efficiently, within budget, and in line with legal and regulatory standards.

As a Contract Development Manager, you ll work closely with clients, project teams, and legal advisors to safeguard the business s interests while fostering strong, collaborative relationships. You ll also play a key role in identifying and supporting new business opportunities, managing bids, and ensuring robust contract administration throughout the project lifecycle.

This is a client-facing role where your ability to build relationships, manage risk, and promote our services will be essential to driving growth and reinforcing the Watkin Jones brand.

Role Overview:

The role focuses on driving business growth by cultivating strong client relationships, engaging with clients to understand their requirements, and developing project opportunities. You ll work on the bid management process, oversee the preparation of tenders and ensuring the successful delivery of project programmes.

Managing multiple refurbishment projects typically valued between £1 million and £20 million, you ll be responsible for developing comprehensive plans, budgets, and timelines, while closely monitoring progress to ensure projects remain on track and within budget.

Key responsibilities include negotiating and administering contracts, ensuring compliance with technical and regulatory standards, and collaborating with external stakeholders to facilitate smooth project execution. You ll also lead project teams, maintain accurate contract records, and ensure adherence to industry regulations throughout the project lifecycle.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Proven experience in contract management and project management, specifically in the construction industry, with a focus on refurbishment projects ranging from £1m to £20m (preferably accommodation projects such as hotels).
• Strong client-facing skills, with a proven ability to drive business opportunities and manage client relationships.
• Extensive experience in bid management, including programme and resource planning.
• Strong knowledge of contract administration, including the drafting, negotiation, and management of contracts.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines effectively.
• In-depth knowledge of construction industry standards, budgeting, and contract law.
• Leadership capabilities, with experience managing and developing a contract management team.

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), agile working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
• Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.

Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?

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+ homes developed and in-build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7bn of assets under management.

Joining us means becoming part of a company that s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We re committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development.

This is more than just a job it s a chance to grow your career in a fast-paced, innovative environment. If you re ready to make a significant impact and advance your career with a market leader, we d love to hear from you!