Commercial Manager

About the role

Balfour Beatty has an exciting opportunity for a Commercial Manager to join our Regional Civils team based in Colchester, playing a pivotal role on the landmark Bramford to Twinstead Network Reinforcement (BTNO) project. This major infrastructure programme will deliver 28km of new 400kV transmission infrastructure and a significant substation upgrade, helping to strengthen and future-proof the National Grid.

Reporting into the Head of Commercial and Area Commercial Director, you will provide strategic commercial leadership across the project lifecycle, ensuring the successful delivery of commercial objectives, contractual obligations and business performance targets. Acting as the focal point for all commercial matters, you will work closely with project teams to drive value creation, manage risk, maximise cash generation, and provide robust commercial governance and assurance.

This is a high-profile opportunity to influence the success of a critical infrastructure project while contributing to the wider performance of Balfour Beatty's Regional Civils business.

• Lead all commercial activities across the civils work streams of the BTNO project, acting as the focal point for day-to-day commercial matters.
• Drive value recovery, cost reduction initiatives, and the effective commercial management of subcontractors.
• Provide expert commercial leadership, troubleshooting complex issues and supporting project teams to achieve the best possible commercial outcomes.
• Develop and implement commercial strategies that maximise value creation and secure strong commercial returns for the business.
• Manage project commercial performance, including cash flow, margin improvement, forecasting, and risk management.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate commercial risks, ensuring issues are escalated appropriately and potential disputes are proactively managed.
• Lead accurate commercial forecasting and provide insight into issues that could impact project profitability and performance.
• Appoint, manage, and collaborate with consultant teams to improve project margins and commercial outcomes.
• Support project delivery teams in administering contracts, including warranties, and ensuring contractual obligations are effectively managed.
• Build strong relationships with customers and stakeholders, ensuring projects are delivered in line with client requirements and expectations.
• Promote best practice and innovation across the commercial function, driving continuous improvement throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure Balfour Beatty's Minimum Commercial Expectations, governance processes, and approval gateways are consistently applied.
• Attend and contribute to monthly commercial reviews, project meetings, and business performance discussions.
• Support bid and tender activities, undertaking commercial reviews and advising on contract and risk management matters.
• Carry out commercial audits and provide robust reporting to support effective decision-making and governance.
• Lead, develop, and support commercial team members, fostering a high-performing and collaborative culture.
• Champion Balfour Beatty's Values, maintain a relentless focus on Zero Harm, and support delivery of the CSUK Sustainability Roadmap.

• Proven experience in a senior commercial leadership role within the construction or civil engineering sector.
• A strong track record of managing and developing commercial teams whilst delivering successful business outcomes.
• Extensive commercial management expertise, including contract administration, risk management, margin improvement, and value creation.
• Demonstrable ability to lead, influence, and engage with project teams, clients, subcontractors, and senior stakeholders.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience driving performance, forecasting, and maximising project profitability.
• Proven ability to identify, manage, and mitigate commercial risks while protecting the interests of the business.
• Experience of working on large-scale infrastructure or major civils projects, with utility or energy sector experience advantageous.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to challenge and influence at all levels.
• A proactive and collaborative leadership style, with a passion for driving best practice and continuous improvement.
• Experience managing contracts, supply chains, and subcontractor relationships within a complex project environment.
• A relevant degree or professional…