Contracts Manager

Reference: 4783689Job ID: 5384397Posted: 2026-08-04Closing date: 2026-11-01Location: OxfordSalary: 80,000 - 85,000 (per annum)Job type: PermanentWorking pattern: Full timeIndustry: Construction / Construction - Building ProjectsCompany: HaysConsultant: James MitchellHays office: Southampton — Ground Floor, Clockwise, Mountbatten House, Grosvenor SquarePhone: 02382020101Email: james.mitchell@hays.comContracts Manager – Special WorksLocation: Oxford Salary: 80,000 – 85,000 + Package Sector: Construction | Refurbishment | Heritage | Education | Commercial | Special WorksOverviewAn established and highly respected regional main contractor is looking to appoint a Contracts Manager to join its successful Oxford team.This is a key role within the company’s Special Works division, overseeing a varied portfolio of projects across Oxfordshire and the surrounding region. Projects typically range from 500k to 4 million, with around 10 live schemes running at any one time.The business has a long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality building projects across sectors including education, commercial, healthcare, heritage, refurbishment, public sector and small new-build schemes. With a strong regional presence and a loyal client base, they are known for their collaborative approach, quality delivery, and ability to work successfully in complex live environments.The RoleAs Contracts Manager, you will be responsible for leading multiple projects from pre-construction through to completion, ensuring each scheme is delivered safely, commercially, on programme, and to the expected quality standards. You will play an important role in reviewing new opportunities, selecting suitable projects, supporting pre-construction planning, and making sure each job is properly resourced before it reaches site.Working closely with Project Managers, Site Managers, Quantity Surveyors, clients, consultants and supply chain partners, you will provide strong operational leadership across the region.Key ResponsibilitiesOversee around 10 live projects across Oxfordshire and the surrounding area.Manage projects ranging from 500k to 4 million.Lead projects from pre-construction through to final handover.Support the selection of suitable work for the Special Works division.Review buildability, logistics, programme, risk, and resource requirements.Manage and support Project Managers, Site Managers and site teams.Ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget and to a high standard.Maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants and subcontractors.Monitor programme performance, quality, cost control and commercial outcomes.Identify project risks early and implement practical solutions.Ensure consistent standards across all sites.Promote a positive, professional and quality-focused culture.What We’re Looking ForWe are looking for someone with a strong main contracting background who is comfortable managing multiple projects and leading teams across several live sites.You may already be working as a Contracts Manager, or you could be a Senior Project Manager looking for the next step in your career.The ideal candidate will have experience across sectors such as:RefurbishmentEducationCommercialHeritageHealthcarePublic sectorSmall new-build projectsOccupied/live environmentsCandidate RequirementsExperience as a Contracts Manager or Senior Project Manager.Main contractor background.Strong knowledge of construction delivery, pre-construction and programme management.Ability to oversee multiple projects at the same time.Good commercial awareness and understanding of project risk.Strong leadership and communication skills.Confident managing clients, consultants, subcontractors and internal teams.High standards around health & safety, quality and client satisfaction.Based within commuting distance of Oxford or happy to work across the region.PackageSalary: 80,000 – 85,000Car allowance / company packagePensionAdditional company benefitsLong-term progression opportunitiesStrong pipeline of regional workHow to ApplyIf you are interested in this opportunity, please apply via the link or contact James Mitchell for a confidential discussion. #4783689 - James Mitchell