Junior Contracts Manager - Commercial Fit Out

Henley Chase; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm is seeking a skilled Contract Manager to oversee the successful delivery of various fit-out projects. The ideal candidate will possess a strong commercial awareness and the ability to manage multiple projects to ensure they are delivered on time and within budget. Responsibilities include project management from contract award to completion, client communication, and compliance with health and safety standards. A competitive salary and benefits package are offered.

Benefits

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Pension

Commission for successfully delivered projects

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Contract Manager or Project Manager within the commercial fit-out sector.
• Strong background delivering office, retail, hospitality, or mixed-use fit-out projects.
• Experience managing projects in live environments and fast-track programmes.
• Solid understanding of construction contracts and commercial management.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, typically ranging from £5k to £2m in value.
• Oversee projects from contract award through to completion.
• Prepare and manage project budgets, forecasts, and cost reports.
• Ensure all projects comply with health and safety legislation.

Skills

Strong commercial and contractual knowledge

Excellent organisational and time-management skills

Confident communicator with strong client-facing ability

Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 and project management software

Full UK driving licence

Education

SMSTS

CSCS Black or Gold Card

NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management

First Aid at Work

IOSH

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

Project management software

Job description

Overview

CONTRACT MANAGER - JOB SPECIFICATION

Location: Office-based when not visiting site (Essex)

Reporting To: Managing Director

Job Role: The Contract Manager will be responsible for the successful delivery of a range of works, from multiple smaller-value contracts through to full commercial fit-out projects, from pre-construction to final account. The role requires strong commercial awareness, excellent project control, and the ability to manage multiple programmes concurrently, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, to specification, and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

• Project & Contract Management
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously, typically ranging from £5k to £2m in value
  • Oversee projects from contract award through to completion and defects period
  • Administer building contracts (e.g. JCT Design & Build, JCT Minor Works)
  • Manage project programmes, budgets, and cash flow
  • Ensure compliance with contract terms, specifications, and drawings
• Commercial Management
  • Prepare and manage project budgets, forecasts, and cost reports
  • Manage variations, change control, and final accounts
  • Procure subcontractors and suppliers, including tender analysis and appointment
  • Value subcontractor works and manage payment processes
• Site & Delivery
  • Coordinate site teams, subcontractors, and consultants
  • Carry out regular site visits to monitor progress, quality, and safety
  • Resolve site issues and design queries efficiently
  • Ensure projects are delivered to agreed quality standards
• Health, Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure all projects comply with H&S legislation and internal procedures
  • Prepare and review Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS)
  • Promote a strong health and safety culture across all sites
  • Deliver toolbox talks and site briefings as required
• Client Management
  • Act as main point of contact for clients, consultants, and landlords
  • Attend and lead client and progress meetings
  • Build and maintain strong client relationships to encourage repeat business
• Handover & Close-Out
  • Manage practical completion, snagging, and handover documentation
  • Ensure O&M manuals and certification are completed and issued
  • Close out final accounts

Required Experience

• Proven experience as a Contract Manager or Project Manager within the commercial fit-out sector
• Strong background delivering office, retail, hospitality, or mixed-use fit-out projects
• Experience managing projects in live environments and fast-track programmes
• Solid understanding of construction contracts and commercial management

Qualifications

• SMSTS
• NVQ Level 6 in Construction Site Management (desirable)
• CSCS Black or Gold Card (preferred)
• First Aid at Work (desirable)
• IOSH

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strong commercial and contractual knowledge
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills
• Confident communicator with strong client-facing ability
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 and project management software
• Full UK driving licence required

Personal Attributes

• Proactive and results-driven
• Calm under pressure
• Detail-oriented with a hands-on approach
• Professional and approachable leadership style
• Strong team player

Package

• Salary: £45,000-£55,000
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Pension
• Commission paid for projects successfully delivered for clients introduced by the individual