Contracts Manager

O'Neill & Brennan - Taunton; Exeter; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected regional contractor in the South West is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to oversee multiple industrial projects valued between £1m and £15m. This role involves managing site teams, fostering client relationships, and maintaining high health & safety standards. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in contracts management and relevant qualifications, with opportunities for progression in a stable and award-winning business.

Benefits

Highly negotiable salary

Executive company car or generous car allowance

Private healthcare

Contributory pension

Discretionary performance-related bonus

Qualifications

• Proven track record as a Contracts Manager with main or regional contractor.
• Experience delivering projects valued £1m – £15m.
• Hands-on, site-based approach with visible leadership.

Responsibilities

• Oversee delivery of multiple industrial projects.
• Manage site teams and client relationships.
• Control costs and uphold health & safety standards.

Skills

Contracts management

Budget management

Leadership skills

Health & safety standards

Education

HNC / Degree in Construction Management

SMSTS

CSCS Black Card

First Aid

Job description

South West England (Exeter to Taunton Corridor) Permanent – Highly Negotiable Salary & Package

Our client is a highly respected, independent regional SME contractor in Exeter, with over 75 years of established experience in delivering exceptional construction projects across the South West. Specialising in industrial new builds and complex refurbishments, they hold prestigious accreditations including ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001, and are renowned for their commitment to quality, on-time and on-budget delivery, and leveraging local resources to support the regional economy while minimising environmental impact.

With a strong forward order book and a forward-thinking ethos, they are now seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to join their established senior management team and contribute to their ongoing growth.

The Role Reporting to the Construction Director, you will oversee the successful delivery of multiple industrial projects simultaneously, typically valued between £1m and £15m. Responsibilities include managing site teams, fostering strong client relationships, driving programme adherence, controlling costs, and upholding the highest standards of health & safety, quality, and sustainability.

Key Requirements

Proven track record as a Contracts Manager with a main or regional contractor, delivering schemes valued £1m – £15m

Strong commercial expertise in managing budgets, variations, subcontract packages, and final accounts

Excellent leadership and man-management skills to motivate and develop on-site teams

Hands‑on, site‑based approach with a passion for visible leadership across regional projects

Relevant qualifications (e.g., HNC / Degree in Construction Management, SMSTS, CSCS Black Card, First Aid)

Experience in industrial or commercial sectors highly desirable

Location Head office is conveniently located near the M5 (J25–J27), with projects primarily within an hour's drive. The ideal candidate will live in Exeter. Applications from North Devon or South Devon will also be considered.

Remuneration

Highly negotiable basic salary, tailored to experience

Executive company car or generous car allowance

Private healthcare

Contributory pension

Discretionary performance-related bonus

Opportunities for progression to senior leadership roles

This is a unique chance to join a stable, award‑winning regional business that prioritises excellence, innovation, and its people, with a proven history of internal promotion and lasting client partnerships.

For a confidential discussion or to submit your CV, please apply today. All applications will be handled in the strictest confidence.

O’Neill and Brennan values diversity and promotes equality, All individuals will be treated in a fair and equal manner and in accordance with the law regardless of gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation