Contracts Manager

Bridgewater Consultancy; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company car allowance

Pension scheme

24 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays

Career progression

Training support

Job summary

Bridgewater Consultancy in Manchester is seeking a Contracts Manager to lead delivery of ground investigation projects, manage a multidisciplinary team and ensure high standards of safety, quality and client service.

You will oversee timelines, budgets and resource planning, build strong client relationships, and contribute to regional strategy and business growth through hands-on project oversight and leadership.

Qualifications

• 7+ years' experience in geotechnical/ground investigation.
• Experience leading and developing a team with clear communication.
• Ability to coordinate resources, manage timelines and budgets.
• Proven ability to build strong client and internal relationships.
• Commitment to health, safety, environmental and quality culture.
• Experience in contract performance management including cost control and forecasting.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of ground investigation projects across the region.
• Manage a multidisciplinary team and ensure quality and efficiency.
• Oversee project timelines, budgets and resource planning.
• Develop key client relationships and opportunities for growth.
• Contribute to regional strategy and business development.

Skills

Geotechnical expertise

Ground investigation leadership

Team leadership

Budget management

Client relationship management

Contract performance management

Education

BSc in a relevant discipline

SMSTS certification

Job description

Contracts Manager opportunity in Manchester leading regional ground investigation delivery, teams, clients and commercial performance.

18th August, 2026

We are recruiting on behalf of a well-established specialist business operating within the ground investigation, geotechnical and environmental sector. The company delivers technical site investigation services across a wide range of infrastructure, development and construction projects, supporting clients with reliable project delivery, technical expertise and a strong commitment to health, safety, quality and environmental standards.

An exciting journey as our new Contracts Manager at our thriving regional office in Manchester. In this pivotal role, you'll lead the delivery of ground investigation projects, shaping a high-performing culture and ensuring exceptional outcomes for both our clients and teams. With your proven expertise in geology, geotechnical, and site investigation, you'll be the driving force behind our operational success, balancing people leadership, commercial awareness, and hands‑on project oversight.

Key Highlights:

• Opportunity to lead a multidisciplinary team and create a supportive, high-performing environment
• Oversee the successful delivery of multiple ground investigation projects, ensuring quality, efficiency, and compliance
• Contribute to business growth by identifying new opportunities and building strong professional networks

Required Requirements:

• Knowledge of geotechnical, ground investigation with a minimum of 7 years experience.
• Proven experience in leading and developing a team, with a focus on clear communication and shared goals
• Expertise in coordinating resources, managing project timelines and budgets, and maintaining a strong focus on quality and technical excellence
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, internal teams, and technical specialists
• Commitment to championing a robust health, safety, environmental, and quality culture
• Proficiency in contract performance management, including cost control, forecasting, and profitability

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum of seven years' relevant experience in a similar role within ground investigation or a related field
• BSc (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
• SMSTS certification

Benefits

• Company car allowance
• 6% employer contributory pension scheme
• 24 days' annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays
• Annual leave entitlement increases with length of service, rising by one day per year after the first year, up to a maximum of 29 days
• Opportunity to lead a busy regional office and influence team performance
• Career progression within a growing specialist ground investigation business
• Ongoing professional development and training support
• Varied and technically interesting ground investigation projects
• Supportive senior leadership team
• Collaborative working environment with a strong focus on safety, quality and people development
• Opportunity to contribute to business growth and regional strategy

Inclusion & Diversity

We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. If you require any adjustments during the process, please let us know and we will be happy to support where possible.