Contracts Manager

The Orchard; Elland; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established construction firm in the UK is seeking a Contracts Manager to oversee the contractual aspects of construction projects. This role includes leading contract administration, managing project budgets, and ensuring compliance with legal standards. The ideal candidate will have 5+ years of experience in the construction industry, strong negotiation skills, and a relevant qualification. You will work in a dynamic environment that values teamwork and professionalism, contributing to impactful projects across Yorkshire and the North East.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in contract or commercial management in construction.
• Strong knowledge of construction contract types (NEC, JCT).
• Excellent commercial acumen and financial analysis skills.
• Proficient in contract management systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead contract administration and management from award through to project close‑out.
• Prepare and manage project budgets, cashflows, and cost forecasts.
• Identify and mitigate contractual and commercial risks throughout the project lifecycle.
• Act as main contact for clients regarding contractual matters.

Skills

Contract management

Negotiation skills

Budgeting

Stakeholder management

Risk assessment

Education

Relevant construction qualification (Degree / HNC / HND)

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel)

Job description

As Contracts Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the contractual side of construction projects, ensuring commercial performance, risk management, and contract compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead contract administration and management from award through to project close‑out.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and to quality and safety standards.
• Be a key interface with clients, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders to protect the company’s interests and strengthen relationships.
• Contract Management & Administration
  • Negotiate and manage contract terms with clients and subcontractors.
  • Handle variations, claims, and contractual risk in collaboration with the commercial and project teams.
  • Ensure accurate and timely contract documentation, including procurement, purchase orders, and change orders.
• Commercial Performance & Budget Control
  • Prepare and manage project budgets, cashflows, and cost forecasts.
  • Monitor financial performance against contract milestones.
  • Implement cost‑saving initiatives without compromising quality or compliance.
• Risk & Compliance
  • Identify and mitigate contractual and commercial risks throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and company policies, including health & safety, quality, and environmental standards.
• Stakeholder Management
  • Act as the main point of contact for clients regarding contractual matters.
  • Develop and maintain strong working relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants.
  • Provide contractual advice and support to internal teams (site managers, QS, design, etc.).

Qualifications

• Significant experience (ideally 5+ years) in contract or commercial management in the construction industry.
• Strong knowledge of construction contract types (e.g., NEC, JCT, or other standard forms).
• Excellent commercial acumen, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis skills.
• Proven ability to assess and mitigate risk.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Leadership skills able to influence cross‑functional teams.
• Proficient in contract management systems and Microsoft Office (particularly Excel).
• Relevant construction qualification (Degree / HNC / HND) or commercial qualification preferred.
• Full UK driving licence (for occasional site visits).

Culture & Values

You will be joining a business that values teamwork, professionalism, and doing the right thing.

As part of a business within an employee ownership trust, you will be working in a company with a co‑owner mindset, where people are empowered to make decisions, contribute, and share in success.

We care deeply about our people, our communities, and the built environment aiming to leave a positive legacy with every project.

We are a well‑established construction business with over 50 years of experience, delivering complex construction projects across Yorkshire and the North East. Working as part of a wider group, we specialise in technically challenging sectors including healthcare, education, food production, commercial refurbishment, and offsite manufacturing. Our strength lies in our ability to deliver safely and efficiently in live, occupied environments, such as active hospitals or food production facilities.