The Contracts Manager will be responsible for the delivery and performance of multiple live groundworks and civil engineering contracts across infrastructure, highways and associated civil works. This is a delivery‑focused role with no involvement in pre‑construction, estimating or tendering. The primary focus is ensuring works are executed safely, in full compliance with UK legislation, client specifications and contractual obligations. The role carries full accountability for health and safety, compliance, commercial control and operational performance across allocated contracts.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the end‑to‑end delivery of live groundworks and civil engineering contracts from mobilisation through to completion
- Ensure all works are delivered in full compliance with UK legislation, including CDM Regulations, HSE requirements and industry standards
- Lead health and safety performance across contracts, promoting a strong safety‑first culture on site
- Review, approve and enforce RAMS, method statements and safe systems of work
- Act as the senior escalation point for health and safety incidents, non‑conformances and compliance matters
- Oversee site teams including Project Managers, Site Managers and supervisors
- Ensure quality standards are met in line with specifications, drawings and client requirements
- Maintain effective relationships with clients, consultants and statutory bodies
- Manage commercial performance including budgets, valuations, variations and cost control
- Monitor programme delivery and address delays or risks proactively
- Lead audits, inspections and corrective actions across sites
Ensure accurate reporting on contract performance, health and safety metrics and riskEssential Requirements
- Proven experience as a Contracts Manager within groundworks or civil engineering
- Strong working knowledge of UK health and safety legislation, including CDM Regulations
- Demonstrable experience managing live construction contracts rather than pre‑construction activity
- Experience overseeing multiple sites and operational teams simultaneously
- Strong understanding of earthworks, drainage, structures and associated civil engineering activities
- Proven ability to manage commercial performance and contractual risk
- Confident decision‑maker with a safety‑led and compliance‑driven approach
- Strong communication skills with the ability to engage clients, site teams and external stakeholders
- Full UK driving licence - DL