Contract Manager

Contracts Manager – Water Infrastructure (Clean Water Mains Replacement)Location: Hybrid – Projects across Sussex, Hampshire & Kent

Employment Type: Permanent

We are currently supporting a leading civil engineering contractor in the recruitment of a Contracts Manager to oversee a portfolio of clean water mains replacement projects across the South East. This is a hybrid role offering a mix of office, site, and remote working.

As Contracts Manager, you will take full ownership of multiple projects, leading from design and construction through to commissioning and handover. You will be accountable for programme delivery, budget control, contractual compliance, and commercial performance — working closely with civils, MEICA, and commercial teams to ensure successful outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee delivery of clean water mains replacement projects from start to finish
• Manage all aspects of design, construction, commissioning, and project handover
• Lead project teams to ensure time, cost, safety, and quality targets are achieved
• Act as the key link between client, delivery teams, and internal stakeholders
• Ensure NEC contract compliance, cost forecasting, and commercial performance
• Provide leadership to Project Managers, Engineers, and commercial staff
• Identify and drive value, ensuring the team delivers against client expectations
• Ensure all projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest standard
• About You:
• Proven experience in a Contracts Manager or Senior Project Manager role within water/utilities
• Strong background delivering clean water or infrastructure frameworks
• Deep understanding of NEC contracts and their application in live projects
• Excellent leadership, communication, and client-facing skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently with a strategic view
• Strong commercial acumen and experience managing budgets and contract obligations
• Civil or MEICA engineering background preferred
• What’s on Offer:
• Competitive salary in the region of £80,000 – £85,000 plus package
• Hybrid working model (site, office and remote)
• Clear progression and development opportunities within a growing business
• Involvement in high-value, long-term frameworks in the utilities sector

If you are an experienced Contracts Manager looking for a new challenge in the water sector, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today or get in touch for a confidential discussion.