Contracts Lead – Construction (Hybrid, £98k+ Bonus)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Welcome Bonus (5%)

Performance-based bonus

Healthcare scheme

Free staff parking

Discounted rail travel

Share matching scheme

Volunteer days

Job summary

Gatwick Airport Limited is seeking a Contracts Lead to shape contract strategy and governance for major construction projects at London Gatwick. You will collaborate with project teams, procurement and legal specialists to deliver value, minimise risk and ensure successful outcomes in a live operational environment.

The role is office-first hybrid: three days in the office and two days remote, with a focus on NEC contracts, dispute resolution and supplier management.

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 in complex environments.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Experience supporting major infrastructure or capital programmes.
• Commercially astute with track record of delivering against targets.
• Professional membership (e.g. RICS) desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead contract expertise across the Construction team, supporting all contract forms with a focus on NEC.
• Own and continuously improve Gatwick’s suite of standard contract templates.
• Provide assurance that contracts are clear, robust, and fit for purpose.
• Manage and resolve commercial queries, disputes, and escalations.
• Lead dispute resolution processes and meetings, ensuring optimal outcomes.
• Partner with the Construction Lawyer to ensure compliance and governance.
• Support procurement strategy by advising on the right contract approach for each project.
• Negotiate rates with consultants and contractors to achieve best market value.
• Deliver training and share best practice across programme teams.
• Identify opportunities to drive cost and programme efficiencies through effective contract use.
• Foster collaborative relationships across the supply chain to reduce disputes and enhance long-term value.

Skills

NEC contracts

Contract management

Dispute resolution

Stakeholder management

Commercial acumen

Infrastructure projects

Construction law

Education

Degree in Construction Law/Commercial Management

Job description

Gatwick Airport Limited is seeking a Contracts Lead to shape contract strategy and governance for major construction projects at London Gatwick. You will collaborate with project teams, procurement and legal specialists to deliver value, minimise risk and ensure successful outcomes in a live operational environment.

The role is office-first hybrid: three days in the office and two days remote, with a focus on NEC contracts, dispute resolution and supplier management.