Senior Quantity Surveyor

Senior Quantity Surveyor Location: Oxfordshire Sector: Civil Engineering – Highways Employment Type: Permanent About the Opportunity Red Sky Personnel are recruiting on behalf of a leading civil engineering contractor delivering major infrastructure projects across the UK. This opportunity sits on a significant highways scheme in Didcot, requiring a commercially astute Senior Quantity Surveyor to take full ownership of the commercial function. Key Requirement: Proven experience delivering fully built highways/roads projects in the UK is essential. Role Overview Reporting to the Managing Quantity Surveyor, you will lead all commercial activities on a major highways project. This includes full cost control, subcontract management, contract administration, and value recovery, ensuring commercial performance and compliance across the lifecycle of the scheme. Key Responsibilities Full commercial management of a major highways project Establish and manage project budgets, including cost coding structures Prepare, submit, and manage monthly applications for payment Monitor costs, forecast outturn, and report cost to completion Administer NEC contracts (preferably Option C), including compensation events Lead subcontract procurement, tendering, and contract negotiation Manage subcontractor accounts, payments, and issue resolution Carry out delay analysis and support loss & expense claims Ensure accurate and timely commercial reporting using internal systems Liaise with client representatives and internal stakeholders Manage and mentor junior commercial staff Attend and contribute to commercial and progress meetings Ensure cash flow forecasting and financial controls are maintained Requirements Essential: Degree or equivalent in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management Demonstrable experience in a Senior QS role within heavy civils Strong background in fully built highways/roads projects Sound knowledge of NEC contracts (Option C preferred) Strong commercial acumen with cost control and forecasting expertise Proven subcontract management and negotiation skills Experience in claims, delay analysis, and loss & expense Desirable: Professional accreditation (MRICS / MCICES or similar) Key Competencies Strong leadership and team management capability Clear and confident communication skills Client-facing and commercially focused mindset Effective planning and organisational ability High level of attention to detail and accountability Proactive problem-solving and decision-making Package Competitive salary Car allowance Pension Private medical cover Life assurance