Construction Contracts Manager

About the Role

We are partnering with a thriving construction company expanding in Munster, seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to join their team in Cork. This senior position involves hands-on management of commercial and contractual aspects throughout major construction projects, ensuring proactive risk management, protecting contractual rights, and collaborating with senior project teams to drive successful outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee contracts from project initiation to completion and close-out.
• Provide expert advice to Project Managers and senior leadership on contractual duties, commercial risks, and exposures.
• Handle contract variations, changes, claims, extensions of time, and necessary contractual notifications.
• Identify and address contract risks early to safeguard the company's entitlements and position.
• Review and negotiate agreements with subcontractors and suppliers.
• Support procurement strategies, tender evaluations, and awarding contracts.
• Evaluate variations and compensation claims, preparing sound commercial recommendations.
• Maintain comprehensive records, registers, and supporting documentation related to contracts.
• Collaborate closely with Quantity Surveyors, commercial teams, and project personnel throughout delivery.
• Assist in negotiation and dispute avoidance, liaising with external advisors when required.
• Prepare clear and concise contractual and commercial reports for senior management.
• Educate project teams on contract details to enable proactive rather than reactive actions on issues.

Candidate Profile

• Experience with main contractors, developers, consulting firms, or large project environments focused on contract and commercial management.
• Strong knowledge of construction contracts, ideally with experience in NEC, JCT, or similar contract forms.
• Familiarity with Irish construction industry standards and practices.
• Expertise in change control, contract variations, claims, and establishing entitlement.
• Skilled in preparing and responding to contractual notices.
• Excellent commercial judgment with negotiation skills and confidence in advising senior stakeholders.
• Outstanding written communication capabilities.
• Ability to identify risks before they evolve into costly issues.

A relevant qualification in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Commercial Management, Engineering, or Law is preferable, though extensive relevant experience will also be considered strongly.

Why Join?

• Attractive salary and benefits package.
• Contribution towards pension scheme.
• Support for professional memberships and subscriptions.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development.
• High-level involvement in major construction projects.
• Direct interaction with senior decision-makers.
• Potential for long-term career advancement.

This role goes beyond basic contract administration, offering a chance to be a trusted commercial advisor within the project team, influence key decisions, manage risks strategically, and contribute significantly to project success.