Contracts Manager

Overview Contracts Manager — Utilities (clean water bias). Lead and grow the engineering function for a newly formed Utilities Division for an exciting contractor, reporting to the Utilities Engineering Director. This hands-on role combines team leadership, project delivery and regulatory oversight across water-focused works across England & Wales, with a mix of remote, office and site-based working. Key responsibilities: * Lead and manage engineering teams, supervisors and site personnel delivering utility projects (water-focused). * Plan, schedule and deliver projects safely, to specification, on time and within budget. * Oversee construction and maintenance activities, ensuring correct materials, workmanship and handover. * Act as escalation point for complex technical, commercial and accreditation enquiries (WIRS, NERS, GIRS). * Ensure regulatory and statutory compliance across projects; maintain and demonstrate required accreditations. * Manage client, subcontractor and stakeholder relationships; represent the business at site meetings. * Develop and implement engineering policies, procedures and standards for the division. * Produce and manage project forecasts, budgets, programme updates and close-out documentation. * Carry out site auditing, site supervision reviews and deliver toolbox talks and safety briefings. * Monitor asset/system performance and identify opportunities for operational improvement. * Stay current with industry standards, technical specifications (e.g. CESWI, British Standards) and market developments. * Contribute to building and developing the Engineering function, nurturing capability and promoting best practice. Qualifications: Essential * Engineering or technical qualification (degree, HNC or equivalent). * Utility/water industry experience (site supervisor → senior engineering role progression desirable). * SMSTS and valid CSCS card. * Membership of a recognised engineering institution (or working towards). * Full, valid UK driving licence. Desirable * Water SHEA, NCO (W) and Hygiene cards. * Knowledge of CESWI, WIMES and relevant British Standards. * Proven experience with WIRS/NERS/GIRS processes and accreditations. * Experience developing an engineering function and strong commercial/project management capability. * Familiarity with regulatory frameworks across water, electricity and gas. Benefits: * Competitive salary and company pension. * Performance-related bonus scheme. * Life assurance and private medical care. * Annual leave plus bank holidays and volunteering allowance. * Flexible benefits options and Employee Assistance Programme. * Company vehicle scheme or mileage allowance where required. * Ongoing training, development and clear career progression opportunities. Drive the delivery and growth of a new Utilities Division - if you’re a proactive, technically strong contracts/engineering manager with a proven water background, we want to hear from you. Apply now