Senior Quantity Surveyor

  • Deverell Smith Ltd
  • Jan 16, 2026
Full time Construction

Job Description

Senior Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager


Location: South East London (office-based initially, then site-based)
Project Value: c. 200m
Sector: Residential (High-rise)
We are working exclusively with a leading residential developer-backed business to appoint an experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager for a landmark, large-scale residential development in South East London.
The project comprises circa 600 residential units across three tower blocks, representing one of the organisation's most significant upcoming schemes. This is a senior commercial leadership role offering long-term project involvement from pre-construction through delivery.



The Role


Reporting into the Commercial Manager and operating as the commercial lead on the project, you will take full responsibility for cost control, procurement, and commercial performance. Initially office-based, the role will transition to site once construction commences.
You will work closely with Construction, Technical, Design, Finance, and Sales teams, playing a key role in ensuring both commercial rigour and operational success.



Key Responsibilities


  • Prepare tenders and detailed scopes of work for all trade packages

  • Procure contractor trade packages and manage the full procurement lifecycle

  • Manage contractor accounts, including valuations, variations, and final accounts

  • Review and assess drawing changes and cost implications

  • Review and approve Site Instructions and cost control forms where appropriate

  • Produce valuation and cost value reports, including quarterly reporting to senior leadership

  • Implement and manage the commercial function in line with company policies and procedures

  • Attend design and project team meetings

  • Lead detailed package reviews and drive value engineering opportunities

  • Prepare and manage all contract documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance

  • Maintain full financial accountability for the project budget

  • Work collaboratively with the wider project team to achieve operational and financial objectives

  • Manage and mentor junior members of the site commercial team where applicable


Key Skills & Experience


  • Proven experience in a Senior Quantity Surveyor or Commercial Manager role on large residential projects

  • Comfortable working independently with minimal supervision

  • Strong commercial acumen with excellent cost control and reporting capability

  • Confident communicator, able to engage with technical, construction, finance, and sales teams

  • Strong negotiation skills and contract knowledge

  • Good overall construction knowledge, ideally within high-rise residential


What's on Offer


  • Opportunity to lead the commercial delivery of a flagship 200m residential scheme

  • Long-term project security with a well-capitalised developer-backed organisation

  • Competitive salary and benefits package

  • Clear route for progression within a growing development platform


If you are a commercially astute residential professional looking to take ownership of a major London residential project, this is an excellent opportunity to step into a high-profile, career-defining role.
All enquiries and applications will be handled in strict confidence.