Contracts Manager

Watkin Jones PLC; Reading; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Work-life balance

Hybrid working

Discounted gym memberships

Health cash plan & life insurance

Job summary

Watkin Jones PLC is seeking an experienced Contract Manager to lead the negotiation, delivery, and performance of refurbishment contracts, with a focus on risk mitigation and latent defects. You will ensure compliance with terms, defects liability provisions, and ongoing contractual obligations across projects.

The role requires nationwide travel and a proactive approach to protect the business while delivering value.

Qualifications

• Experience in construction contract management.
• Experience handling latent defects and risk exposure.
• Track record in bids, negotiations and delivering projects.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Client & Business Development – Build strong client relationships, secure new projects, and represent the business commercially.
• Bids & Tendering – Lead bid submissions, develop programmes, and support successful tender outcomes.
• Contract Management – Draft, review, and negotiate contracts with robust provisions around latent defects, risk, and liability.
• Project Delivery – Manage multiple refurbishment projects, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to required standards.
• Risk & Compliance – Monitor contractual performance, manage defects liability periods, and ensure regulatory and contractual compliance.
• Site & Stakeholder Coordination – Liaise across clients, site teams, and consultants to resolve issues and maintain delivery quality.

Skills

Construction contract management

Latent defects risk

Bids and negotiation

Project delivery

Stakeholder management

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Contract Manager to lead the negotiation, delivery, and performance of construction contracts across refurbishment projects, with a strong focus on risk mitigation, latent defects, and contractual compliance.

You will play a key role in protecting the business through robust contract management, ensuring all terms, particularly those relating to defects liability, warranties, and latent defect exposure are clearly defined, managed, and enforced throughout the project lifecycle.

Due to the nature of this role, there will be the requirement of travel on a national basis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client & Business Development – Build strong client relationships, secure new projects, and represent the business commercially.
• Bids & Tenders – Lead bid submissions, develop programmes, and support successful tender outcomes.
• Contract Management – Draft, review, and negotiate contracts, ensuring robust provisions around latent defects, risk allocation, and liability.
• Project Delivery – Manage multiple refurbishment projects, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to required standards.
• Risk & Compliance – Monitor contractual performance, manage defects liability periods, and ensure compliance with regulatory and contractual obligations.
• Site & Stakeholder Coordination – Act as a key liaison across clients, site teams, and consultants to resolve issues and maintain delivery quality.

What we’re looking for:

• Strong experience in construction contract management
• Proven ability to manage contractual risk and latent defect exposure
• Commercially astute with experience in bids, negotiation, and project delivery
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills

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.

At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:

• Work‑Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), hybrid working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
• Wellbeing: Access to ‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform.
• Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
• Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.

This is an opportunity to take on a high‑impact role within a forward‑thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment.