Commercial Manager

Commercial Manager – London – To £110k + package

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Commercial Manager to join a dynamic and growing development business based in Central London. The successful candidate will play a key role across the full lifecycle of construction projects, from pre-acquisition due diligence through to post-contract cost management and project delivery.

This is a pivotal role that will require strong commercial acumen, proven experience in either the new build student accommodation or leisure sector, excellent negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of the construction process. You will work closely with internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure developments are commercially sound, efficiently procured, and delivered on time and within budget.

Key Tasks

Cost planning Benchmarking Value engineering Value management Procurement review Supply chain management

Key Responsibilities

Pre-Contract:

Conduct all relevant due diligence on new acquisitions. Clearly establish build costs at the outset of each project. Benchmark build costs against comparable projects and provide justifications for any variances. Demonstrate a strong understanding of the full construction process. Evaluate all key project parameters and undertake financial analysis to determine the most viable solutions. Apply sound, logical, and well-reasoned commercial decision-making. Drive pre-construction activities to optimise efficiency and value. Take full responsibility for finalising main contractor agreements, ensuring all risks are addressed and clearly defined. Add value to the design process by challenging methods and solutions. Provide detailed procurement strategy advice, with a strong focus on risk management.

Post-Contract:

Work with Development Managers and Finance to maintain control of build costs against budget, including regular internal coordination. Lead monthly review meetings with the supply chain, assessing costs and performance, and report findings to key stakeholders. Undertake monthly interim valuations and internal cost reporting. Lead/chair cost meetings and ensure risks are reported with clear action plans for addressing any issues. Ensure variations and commercial issues are proactively resolved and closed out with the wider project team. Develop and maintain strong relationships across the supply chain, including contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, manufacturers, and consultants. Collate and manage information to limit the company’s exposure in the event of any disputes. Attend and contribute to monthly Project Review Meetings, providing clear updates on commercial matters. Build and manage effective working relationships with internal stakeholders, including the Executive Director, Projects Director, Development Managers, and Principals. Represent the business in commercial discussions with contractors, suppliers, manufacturers, and consultants.

On offer

Basic salary to £110k, discretionary bonus, private health care, 28 days holiday + b/h, pension scheme plus fabulous benefits