Contract Manager

  • First Recruitment Group
  • Jul 23, 2025
Contractor Engineering

Job Description

Contract Manager

Location: UK (Hybrid must be able to attend client offices as required)

Duration: Long-term 2 years

Overview

We are currently recruiting for a Contract Manager to join one of our major clients in the UK on a hybrid basis. The role requires proven experience in the mining industry (minimum 2 3 years) and a strong track record in supporting large-scale projects (USD 1Bn+).

The purpose of the role is to provide contract management expertise at a senior level, ensuring effective pre- and post-award contracting activities in alignment with the Project Execution Plan and the client s Business Management Systems for Supply Chain activities.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in setting up, drafting, and approving contract plans and procedures, overseeing procurement processes for complex construction works, and managing a contracts team on high-value international projects.

Principal Duties

  • Manage the Contracts/Subcontracts team assigned to allocated project(s).
  • Provide contract management expertise and leadership across all project stages.

Specific Pre-Contract Activities

(Pre-Contract includes all activities performed in the home office prior to contract award.)

  • Contribute to procurement strategy for construction works.
  • Prepare and negotiate Non-Disclosure and Confidentiality Agreements.
  • Compile Solicitation and Expression of Interest documents.
  • Conduct market analysis and prequalify contractors.
  • Prepare Requests for Information, Requests for Proposal (RFP), and Invitations to Tender/Bid (ITT/B).
  • Lead RFP/ITT/ITB kick-off and clarification meetings, including writing and issuing minutes.
  • Compile individual contract plans, contract packages, and award recommendations.
  • Perform commercial evaluations and facilitate bidder selection.
  • Obtain securities, insurances, and key documentation pre-award and mobilisation.
  • Review and approve the work of other team members as needed.

Post-Contract Activities (Contracts Administration)

(Post-Contract includes all activities from contract award to close-out.)

  • Participate in pre-construction kick-off meetings and document outcomes.
  • Manage contractor correspondence, site instructions, and change registers.
  • Track and maintain securities (bonds, performance guarantees, insurance, etc.).
  • Interpret and advise on contractual matters for the project team.
  • Ensure timely and compliant submission of contractual deliverables by contractors.
  • Administer and report through applicable project tools.
  • Oversee compensation claims, back charges, contract amendments, and invoicing.
  • Lead contractor progress meetings and risk review sessions.
  • Conduct contractor performance evaluations and manage claims and disputes.
  • Close out contracts, including financial reporting and archiving.

Authority and Responsibilities

  • Ensure compliance with all internal policies, project governance, and contractual procedures.
  • Optimize resource allocation within the project contracts team.
  • Sign and approve all contractor correspondence, minutes, and documents within the Delegation of Authority framework.
  • Maintain high standards of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) compliance, reporting hazards, incidents, and unsafe conditions.
  • Participate in accident investigations and uphold best practices in workplace safety.

Co-operation and Communication

The Contract Manager will liaise with:

  • Contracts Director and Contracts/Subcontracts team members.
  • Project Directors, Managers, Engineers, and Construction Supervisors.
  • Project Control Engineers and QA teams.
  • Subcontractor representatives and key customer stakeholders.
  • Interface and information managers.

Qualifications

Education:

  • Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction, Engineering, or Law (or equivalent).
  • Professional membership (e.g., RICS) is preferred.

Expertise:

  • Proven track record managing pre-contract and post-contract processes (tendering, award, administration, claims, dispute resolution).
  • Experience managing contracts for large-scale construction projects, preferably in the mining industry (2 3 years minimum).
  • Strong understanding of contractual risk, contract law, and standard forms (FIDIC, IChemE, NEC, LOGIC).
  • Skilled in leading and managing contract teams.
  • Proficiency in MS Office, CRM systems, and collaboration tools (e.g., TEAMS).
  • Strong negotiation and communication skills.
  • Ability to work in dynamic, complex environments.