Contracts Manager

Caswellmaintenance

Location: Office South East / Buckinghamshire (with site travel)

Reporting to: Directors, works closely with: Operations Manager, Costing Team & Estimators

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About Caswell Maintenance

We’re a circa £12m turnover contractor delivering construction, reactive maintenance and FM projects across the commercial sector. As we grow our frameworks and long-term clients, we’re strengthening our senior leadership team with people who take ownership and think commercially.

Role Overview

We’re hiring a Contracts Manager to act as the commercial and contractual lead across multiple projects. While the Operations Manager handles day-to-day site and labour coordination, you’ll focus on making sure projects are contractually sound, commercially protected, and well-controlled in terms of programme, risk, and variation management.

This role requires strong contract knowledge, calm leadership, and the ability to guide project teams to deliver work profitably and in line with obligations.

Key Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the legal and commercial performance of multiple projects (frameworks and lump sum works)
• Review contracts, scopes, and risk items pre-start; flag issues and ensure alignment with delivery team
• Monitor programme and lead high-level progress reviews – ensure client obligations and timelines are tracked and protected
• Review subcontractor packages, scopes and orders; ensure risk and cost are well managed
• Lead variation pricing, delay notices, and EOT claims – coordinate with commercial and ops team to capture everything
• Oversee cost-to-complete, margin tracking, and reporting on project profitability
• Act as escalation point for contractual issues and client queries
• Support PMs and operations staff to improve their commercial awareness and confidence

You’ll Need

• 5+ years in Contracts Manager or Senior PM roles within general construction or FM
• Solid understanding of JCT contracts and construction law basics
• Strong background in variation management, delay notifications, and subcontract procurement
• Able to liaise with clients professionally and protect company interests calmly and clearly
• Commercially aware and comfortable overseeing project financial performance
• Collaborative but firm – able to set expectations and back up the team when required
• Experience across frameworks, refurbishment, and maintenance-style works ideal

Certifications / Qualifications

• HNC/HND or Degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or Commercial/Contract Management
• CPD or training in Contract Law / Construction Claims is a bonus