Contracts Manager

Contracts Manager – Refurbishment & Fit Out London & South East | Permanent | Main Contractor An established and highly respected building contractor is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to oversee refurbishment and fast-track fit out projects across London and the South East. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-structured contractor delivering high-quality building refurbishments and Cat A / Cat B fit out projects, working on a range of prestigious commercial and heritage buildings. The business has a strong reputation for long-term relationships, repeat work, and delivering complex refurbishment schemes in sensitive environments. We are looking for a building-focused Contracts Manager who enjoys taking ownership of projects and leading teams to deliver high-quality outcomes. The Opportunity You will take responsibility for managing multiple refurbishment and fit out projects, ensuring delivery to programme, budget and quality standards. The role requires strong leadership, commercial awareness, and the ability to manage both site teams and client relationships effectively. Projects are typically refurbishment and fast-track fit outs ranging from minor works through to multi-million-pound schemes. Key Responsibilities * Develop project delivery plans aligned with programme and project requirements * Procure and coordinate subcontractors and suppliers * Monitor health & safety and environmental standards across projects * Carry out regular site visits to oversee progress and quality * Work closely with the commercial team to achieve and exceed target profit margins * Lead project meetings and progress reviews * Ensure all contract administration and project documentation is properly managed * Manage project teams to ensure efficient delivery across multiple schemes * Oversee project completion, handover, and client satisfaction * Contribute to future tender feedback and project planning What We’re Looking For This role will suit someone with a strong building refurbishment background rather than a maintenance or M&E-led career. Key experience includes: * Proven background delivering building refurbishment projects * Strong experience managing fast-track fit out projects * Hands-on involvement in Cat A and Cat B fit outs * Strong understanding of the full project lifecycle from pre-construction to handover * Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously Experience & Qualifications Essential * Minimum 10 years’ experience managing construction contracts * Strong project management and commercial awareness * Excellent communication and leadership skills * Ability to manage teams, programmes and budgets Desirable * HND or Degree in Building Studies or Construction Management * IOSH / CSCS / Health & Safety training * Professional membership (e.g. CIOB) Personal Qualities * Motivated and enthusiastic * Highly organised with strong planning and prioritisation skills * Able to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities * Strong numerical, commercial, and communication skills * Able to work independently and proactively Why consider this role? Work on high-quality refurbishment and fit out projects Join a well-established contractor with a strong industry reputation Deliver projects across London’s most interesting buildings Be part of a stable and growing business with long-term workstreams If you are an experienced Contracts Manager with a strong refurbishment and fit out background, we would be keen to hear from you