Contracts Manager

Role Overview

The Contracts Manager will oversee the full spectrum of contract administration and commercial management across assigned projects, ensuring adherence to contractual terms, proactive identification and mitigation of risks, and successful fulfillment of contract commitments throughout each project phase. Acting as the central authority on contract interpretation, claims management, variations, and procurement strategy, this role collaborates closely with project teams, clients, and commercial stakeholders to safeguard company interests and facilitate effective project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct contract administration processes from mobilisation through to closure in line with corporate policies and contract requirements.
• Advise project personnel, clients, and vendors on commercial and contractual issues including scope definitions, risk allocation, liabilities, and change management.
• Draft, issue, and maintain key contract documents such as claims, notices of variation, extensions of time, and other correspondence to secure contractual rights.
• Evaluate and quantify contract variations, compensation events, and claims while preparing well-supported submissions, recommendations, and negotiation plans.
• Manage subcontract and supplier agreements ensuring compliance with terms, monitoring milestones, and verifying payment conditions.
• Maintain updated contract registers, risk logs, and organized audit-ready records within the Document Management System to ensure transparency and traceability.
• Assist procurement by preparing contract documents, assessing tender responses, advising on commercial terms, and supporting negotiation and award stages.
• Lead activities for dispute prevention and resolution by coordinating legal counsel and internal teams, aiming for timely and practical solutions.
• Deliver training and support to project teams on contract requirements and best practices to enhance contract performance and minimize risks.
• Generate commercial reports, forecasts, and KPI updates for management that highlight risk factors, opportunities, and mitigation strategies.
• Participate in project meetings, record minutes and contractual action points, ensuring relevant parties are regularly informed on contractual statuses.
• Ensure all contract-related tasks adhere to company standards for health and safety, quality, and data protection.

Qualifications and Experience

• Demonstrable contract management experience in construction, preferably with a main contractor, developer, or consultancy.
• In-depth understanding of standard contract forms, entitlement and change control procedures such as JCT, NEC, or equivalents.
• Strong commercial insight with a track record in preparing and evaluating claims, variations, and contractual notices.
• Exceptional communication skills, capable of clearly articulating complex contract matters to clients, teams, and senior leaders.
• Highly organised with expertise in maintaining contract registers, document management systems, and audit documentation.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; familiarity with contract management systems and DMS highly desirable.
• Excellent negotiation capabilities, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple demands under pressure.
• Professional qualifications or memberships in construction, law, commercial management, or contract administration advantageous.

Benefits and Inclusion

• A competitive compensation package including pension, professional subscription support, and other company benefits.
• Access to professional growth, training opportunities, and career advancement within the organisation.

Diversity & Inclusion

Walls Construction values diversity as a core strength and fosters inclusion to drive innovation. The company is committed to cultivating a workplace where all individuals feel respected, supported, and valued regardless of gender, civil status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race, or membership of the Travelling community. Reasonable accommodations are provided throughout the recruitment process upon request.