Commercial Lead

About the role

We are seeking a Commercial Lead to oversee the commercial, financial and contractual aspects of the £200m+ Maple Lodge STW upgrade project, part of the Thames Water Framework. The role combines strategic oversight with hands‑on management to ensure commercial success from pre‑construction through to final account.

Key responsibilities

• Lead all commercial, financial and contractual management for the project, ensuring compliance and driving financial performance.
• Manage and mentor a team of Quantity Surveyors, fostering a collaborative, high‑performance culture.
• Establish robust cost management processes, including forecasting, budget reporting and value‑engineering initiatives.
• Oversee supply‑chain procurement, subcontract management and contract negotiations.
• Maintain the commercial risk and opportunities register, identifying risks early and developing mitigation actions.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a Commercial Manager on major civil engineering or water‑infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of contract management and change‑control processes.
• Demonstrated ability to manage and mentor a commercial team.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to collaborate across design, engineering and planning functions.

Required skills

• Cost forecasting
• Financial reporting
• Subcontract management
• Commercial risk management
• Contract management
• Change control processes
• Quantity surveying
• Value engineering
• Procurement
• Supply‑chain procurement
• Contract negotiation