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    Contracts Manager – Utilities

    Job Type:

    Full time

    Posted:

    Location(s):

    Wiltshire

    Job Description:

    Ferns Group are a family run business with over 25 years’ experience as an established Utilities and Reinstatement company, specialising in Telecoms Civils, and tailored reinstatement services.

    Our Mission is “to be the preferred choice in our field by adding value to our business partners without compromise to quality, safety or the environment.”​

    Job description

    Ferns Group are a family run business with over 25 years’ experience as an established Utilities and Reinstatement company, specialising in Telecoms Civils, and tailored reinstatement services.

    Overview
    We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Contract Manager to oversee and manage our water utility agreements. Focusing on reinstatement works and ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and client requirements. The ideal candidate will possess strong project management skills to oversee project teams, subcontractors, and resources to deliver efficient and cost-effective reinstatement services. This role requires a proactive individual who can, build relationships and meet contractual obligations to maintain client satisfaction.

    Duties

    Contract Management

    • Oversee the end-to-end management of water utilities contracts, with a focus on reinstatement works.
    • Ensure compliance with contract specifications, budget, and schedule.
    • Manage variations, negotiate terms, and address disputes effectively.

    Operational Delivery

    • Plan and coordinate reinstatement activities, ensuring resources are allocated efficiently.
    • Monitor project progress, resolving any on-site challenges promptly.
    • Oversee reinstatement processes, ensuring compliance with industry standards and local authority requirements (e.g., HAUC, NRSWA).

    Team Leadership

    • Lead and manage project teams, including site managers, supervisors, and subcontractors.
    • Ensure team adherence to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards.
    • Provide coaching and support to staff, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.

    Client and Stakeholder Engagement

    • Serve as the primary point of contact for clients regarding contract performance and delivery.
    • Build and maintain strong relationships with local authorities, suppliers, and stakeholders.
    • Prepare and deliver regular reports and presentations on project progress and performance metrics.

    Financial and Resource Management

    • Manage budgets, ensuring profitability while delivering high-quality outcomes.
    • Monitor resource utilization, identifying and addressing inefficiencies.
    • Prepare and review financial forecasts, ensuring alignment with project goals.

    Experience

    Essential

    • Proven experience as a Contracts Manager or similar role within the utilities sector.
    • Strong background in reinstatement works, particularly in water utilities projects.
    • Comprehensive knowledge of relevant legislation, including NRSWA and HAUC regulations.
    • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and teams effectively.
    • Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

    Desirable

    • Relevant academic or professional qualifications in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related fields.
    • Experience in working with asset management systems and reporting tools.
    • Membership in professional bodies such as CIWEM or ICE is an advantage.

    Key Competencies:

    • Strong leadership and team management skills.
    • Analytical and strategic thinking to drive continuous improvement.
    • Commitment to health and safety best practices.
    • Customer-focused mindset with an emphasis on delivering quality outcomes.

    Full UK Driving Licence and own transport required due to location.

    Ferns are an Equal Opportunities Employer

    If you are an organised professional with a passion for contract management and possess the necessary skills outlined above, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

    Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

    Pay: £40,000.00-£50,000.00 per year

    Benefits:

    • Company pension
    • Free parking
    • On-site parking

    Schedule:

    • Day shift
    • Monday to Friday

    Ability to commute/relocate:

    • Chippenham (Wiltshire, South West Region): reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

    Experience:

    • utility project management: 3 years (required)

    Licence/Certification:

    • Driving Licence (required)

    Location:

    • Chippenham (Wiltshire, South West Region) (preferred)

    Work Location: In person

    Ferns Group are dedicated to diversity in the workplace and committed to treating all our employees and job applicants equally. We embrace equal opportunities, including working with the prison service, and are opposed to discrimination on any grounds.

    All applicants must have rights to work in the UK and be willing to undertake the relevant pre-employment screening checks should your application be successful.