Senior Commercial Manager - Construction

About the role

As a Senior Commercial Manager, you will be a key commercial leader within one of our Integrated Project Teams (IPTs), driving the procurement, execution and contract management of major construction and infrastructure packages within the STEP programme. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the commercial strategy for complex capital works, enabling industry partnerships and ensuring the successful delivery of this world-first engineering and construction project. Contract Strategy & Delivery Lead the drafting, negotiation and execution of complex construction, civils, infrastructure and engineering contracts, ensuring alignment with programme objectives and delivery milestones. Ensure all contract terms reflect best practice within the construction industry, meeting regulatory, safety and quality standards typical of major capital projects. Drive a collaborative, alliance‑based approach to contract management with Whole Plant Partners and major Tier 1 contractors, fostering strong relationships that support safe, efficient and high‑quality delivery. Provide construction‑focused risk assessment and mitigation strategies, ensuring commercial resilience across design, construction and commissioning phases. Oversee the full contract lifecycle for construction packages-from procurement and mobilisation through to delivery, variations, compensation events and final account. Establish robust tracking and reporting systems to monitor contractor performance, site progress, cost forecasting and contract compliance. Lead the resolution of contractual issues, drawing on expertise in construction law, NEC contract management and multi‑disciplinary stakeholder engagement. Maintain full compliance with commercial, legal, health & safety and regulatory frameworks, particularly those governing major construction and infrastructure works. Team Leadership & Development Lead and develop a cross-functional commercial team supporting construction delivery, including UKFE colleagues and representatives from Whole Plant Partner organisations. Stay abreast of advancements in construction delivery models, digital construction, modern methods of construction (MMC), and large‑scale infrastructure contracting-and embed these insights into programme strategy. Promote a collaborative, high‑performance culture across commercial, engineering and construction management teams to support seamless delivery. Mentor and coach team members on complex construction commercial matters, NEC processes and supplier performance management. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance commercial processes, supply chain performance and the effectiveness of contract governance. Maintain strong relationships with contractors and suppliers across the construction supply chain, ensuring accountability and alignment to scope, budget and schedule. Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement Act as the principal point of contact for all contract‑related matters within your IPT, particularly relating to construction and infrastructure delivery. Work closely with engineering, project management, construction management and commercial teams to drive contract performance and resolve issues rapidly. Provide training and support to internal teams on NEC procedures, construction contract management and best practices in major project delivery. Serve as a cultural ambassador for UKFE, ensuring our values are reflected in all supplier interactions, negotiations and construction partnerships. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of activities and you may be required to undertake other reasonable tasks or duties requested. We are looking for a seasoned commercial professional with significant experience managing contracts on major construction, civil engineering or infrastructure programmes. Essential Skills & Experience: MCIPS or RICS qualification (or equivalent). Proven experience in senior contract management roles within construction, engineering, or major infrastructure projects. Strong expertise in NEC contracts, construction procurement and commercial frameworks typical of large-scale capital delivery. Experience leading small to medium commercial teams and driving high-impact commercial outcomes. Excellent negotiation, analytical and problem‑solving abilities, particularly within construction supply chains. Ability to work in a highly regulated environment, ensuring strict compliance with safety, legal and commercial requirements. Strong leadership, stakeholder engagement and communication skills. Strategic mindset with a focus on long-term collaborative partnerships with contractors and delivery partners. Adaptability to work in a fast-paced, evolving programme environment. Desirable Experience: Accredited Government Commercial Practitioner (or willingness to obtain). Experience managing Joint Ventures or Consortia contracts in infrastructure or major construction programmes. Public sector experience, including working within

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