Contracts Manager

Overview

At John Sisk & Son, we’re more than a construction company, we’re a family-owned business with a global reach, committed to building excellence in every project. We deliver trust, certainty and value to our clients while embracing innovation and shaping the future of construction.

The Contracts Manager is the senior on-site leader with overall responsibility for the successful delivery, quality, safety and financial performance of civil engineering projects. The role ensures full coordination of all aspects of the contract and that client expectations are met or exceeded. The Contracts Manager upholds the highest standards in line with Sisk’s HSEQS policies and procedures, while seeking opportunities to enhance project value and profitability.

Responsibilities

Preconstruction 

• Develop and manage the contract programme, often in collaboration with the Estimating team during tender stage.  

• Instruct the QS on all major preliminary expenditure including plant, accommodation and temporary works.  

• Chair project start-up and production meetings, supporting resource allocation alongside the Regional Director.  

• Oversee the subcontract buying schedule in partnership with the QS.  

• Notify statutory authorities and stakeholders of site commencement.  

• Draft preliminary site logistics and temporary works registers, integrating initial Health & Safety considerations.  

• Attend Design Team Progress Meetings, providing updates and technical input.  

• Lead the preparation of project programmes, method statements, and contract submissions.  

Construction & Delivery 

• Project Execution Planning (PEP)  

• Risk management  

• Commercial performance  

• HSEQS compliance  

• Stakeholder engagement  

• Design management  

• Project administration and close-out.  

• Ensure the project team and supply chain possess the required competencies to meet HSEQS requirements.  

• Monitor overall site progress against programme, liaising with subcontractors and Site Management.  

• Review buildability and explore commercial or programme improvements where possible.  

• Protect Sisk’s contractual position through timely correspondence, notices, and documentation.  

• Oversee site presentation and promote the company’s image through professional site management.  

• Manage project information flows, document control, and scheduling.  

• Manage consultant and subcontractor design coordination including BIM delivery as contractually required.  

• Implement and maintain the Project Execution Plan (PEP), with special focus on HSE and Quality compliance.  

• Prepare and deliver accurate Cost Value Reconciliations (CVRs) and monthly project reports.  

• Drive timely achievement of Practical Completion and ensure proactive issue resolution onsite.  

Subcontractor & Commercial Management 

• Lead subcontractor selection, progress meetings, pre-order meetings and performance monitoring.  

• Oversee the work of the Quantity Surveyor (QS) and Site Manager (SM).  

• Manage subcontractor performance and site productivity to ensure project milestones are achieved.  

• Review and approve expenditure, subcontractor appointments, commercial reports, and financial control measures  

Pre Construction & Close out 

• Lead defect management and ensure timely completion of the Certificate of Making Good Defects.  

• Instruct QS in loss and expense applications and support Final Account preparations.  

• Oversee final commissioning, client handover, and aftercare services.  

• Drive continuous improvement and lessons learned into future project delivery.  

• Conduct Performance Development Plans (PDPs) with direct reports to foster individual growth and development.  

Experience

Essential 

• Significant experience in commercial systems management or estimating support within construction  

• Knowledge of estimating software such as Conquest, CostX or similar  

• Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills  

• Ability to prepare accurate contractual correspondence and reports under tight timelines  

• Knowledge of design and build processes and delivery planning for multi-disciplinary teams  

• Strong IT literacy and systems capability  

• Analytical and numerate with attention to detail  

• Excellent communication skills and ability to support non-technical users  

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects  

• Strong organisational and time-management skills 

Desirable 

• Familiarity with procurement and contract management systems  

• Exposure to tender preparation, risk management and cost control processes  

Qualifications

Essential 

• Degree or equivalent in Construction, Engineering, Business Systems or related discipline  

• Knowledge of commercial and estimating processes within construction  

Desirable: 

• Experience with database management or reporting tools  

• Training in project controls or commercial systems implementation  

Additional Information

• Competitive salary
• 26 days annual leave
• Pension and benefits
• Unlimited learning and development opportunities
• Much more

Our People and Recruitment Commitment

At Sisk Group our people are at the heart of our success. We offer the chance to work with purpose, build a career with no limits and be part of a great team.

All vacancies are managed directly by our Internal Recruitment Team. Unsolicited contact or speculative CVs from unapproved agencies will not be accepted and no introductory fees will apply.

We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion or any other protected characteristic. Reasonable adjustments are available during the recruitment process.

We know the confidence gap and imposter phenomenon can stop talented candidates applying. You do not need to meet every criterion – your skills and potential matter. Don’t hold back we want to hear from you.

All recruitment materials comply with legal and regulatory requirements including the EU Pay Transparency Directive and the Equality Acts UK and Ireland.

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