Lead Contracts Manager

The opportunity
A leading regional civil engineering contractor is seeking a client-facing Contracts Manager to be the “face of the business” on Northumbrian Water (NWL) AMP8 water civils projects across the North East. You’ll lead multiple schemes end-to-end, strengthening relationships on the framework and ensuring safe, timely and commercially sound delivery. Direct water-sector experience is ideal; strong candidates from broader main-contracting civils (drainage, public realm etc.) are also encouraged to apply.
What you’ll do
* Act as primary client interface for NWL AMP8 works; chair/attend progress, commercial and design meetings.
* Lead projects from pre-construction to handover: scope, programme, resources, risk and change control.
* Manage NEC (Options A/C) administration: EWNs, PMIs, CEs, valuations, CVR and forecasting with Commercial.
* Drive best-in-class H&S, quality and environmental performance (RAMS, ITPs, permits, audits).
* Coordinate delivery teams and supply chain to meet time, cost and quality targets.
* Report accurately on programme, cost/value, KPIs/OFWAT metrics and handover documentation.
* Mentor Engineers/Site Managers and champion a collaborative, learning culture.
What you’ll bring
* Proven delivery of water civils (clean/wastewater networks, rehab, drainage) or comparable main-contracting civils.
* Strong NEC knowledge and confident change/forecast management.
* Multi-site leadership with clear planning, prioritisation and recovery skills.
* Credible communicator who builds trust with clients, designers, operations and commercial teams.
* Robust HSEQ leadership and proactive risk management.
Qualifications & requirements
* HNC/HND or Degree in Civil Engineering (or similar).
* SMSTS (or equivalent), CSCS, full UK driving licence.
* Temporary Works appreciation; water hygiene/confined space desirable (can be provided).
* Proficient with MS Project/Primavera (or equivalent) and MS 365.
Travel & patch
North East–led (Teesside & North Yorkshire) with travel across Northern England aligned to project needs.
Why join?
* Impact & visibility: sector-lead remit on a strategic NWL framework.
* Stability & growth: strong forward order book and clear growth plans.
* People & development: apprenticeships, skills development and progression pathways.
* Benefits: 26 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, flexible car leasing, overtime paid at standard rates, supportive culture.
Fore more infromation contact David Fletcher of Fulcrum Recruitment