Senior Construction Manager

Walter Lilly is a premier provider of high quality construction services for London and the South East’s finest landmark and heritage buildings, alongside state-of-the-art science and higher education facilities. With over 100 years experience, we bring bold, complex projects to life. Our clients come to us for the best, expecting results that stand out on a global stage.

Boasting an impressive track record of unique projects, we work with industry-leading architects, engineers, interior designers, and highly skilled tradespeople on a portfolio ranging from the UK’s most recognisable listed attractions to cutting-edge contemporary structures.

26 days' annual leave

Private medical insurance

Income protection insurance

Automatic enrolment to company pension scheme ('opt out' available)

Travel expenses

At Walter Lilly, we work with each other and our clients in the spirit of collaboration. We recognise the expertise of those who have been with us for many years whilst investing in the next generation of rising industry stars, combining invaluable experience with fresh, innovative thinking. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported to reach their full potential.

We strive to create a culture where employees can bring themselves to work in line with our core values of integrity, honesty, and fairness.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Construction Manager / Project Manager to support the delivery of a major laboratory construction and fit‑out project. Acting as the Number 2 to the Project Leader, you will take ownership of day-to-day construction activities, support strategic project decisions and ensure the successful execution of works across a highly technical and regulated environment.

This role is ideally suited to an individual with extensive experience delivering laboratory, life sciences, pharmaceutical or other highly serviced technical facilities, with a strong understanding of complex MEP installations, specialist commissioning activities and stakeholder management.

Due to the location of the project, regular travel to site will be required and a full UK driving licence is strongly preferred.

• Act as the Project Leader's deputy, supporting the overall management and successful delivery of the project.
• Lead day-to-day construction operations across the laboratory construction and fit‑out works.
• Manage and coordinate subcontractors, suppliers and direct site teams to achieve programme milestones.
• Ensure all activities are delivered safely and in compliance with health, safety, environmental and quality standards.
• Drive programme performance, identifying and mitigating risks, delays and constraints.
• Coordinate complex building services installations and interfaces within highly serviced laboratory environments.
• Work closely with clients, consultants, specialist designers and end users to ensure project objectives are achieved.
• Lead site logistics, sequencing and construction planning activities.
• Support project reporting, progress reviews and client presentations.
• Collaborate with commercial teams to monitor costs, variations and project performance.
• Champion quality throughout the build, commissioning and handover phases.
• Promote a collaborative, solutions-focused culture across the project team.

• Proven experience as a Senior Construction Manager, Project Manager or equivalent leadership role on major construction projects.
• Significant experience delivering laboratory construction, laboratory fit‑out, life sciences, pharmaceutical, research or other highly technical facilities.
• Strong understanding of building services coordination, commissioning processes and complex technical installations.
• Experience acting in a senior site leadership capacity, managing multiple work streams and stakeholders simultaneously.
• Excellent planning, organisational and communication skills.
• Strong leadership capabilities with the ability to build high‑performing project teams.
• A proactive and solutions‑focused approach to project delivery.
• Comprehensive knowledge of construction methodologies, quality management processes and health and safety legislation.
• SMSTS, CSCS and First Aid qualifications.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to a relatively remote project location.

Applicants must have an existing right to work in the UK.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Due to the location of the site, a full UK driving licence and regular access to a vehicle are strongly preferred.