Commercial Lead, Operations Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager

Our client delivers multidisciplinary construction consultancy services across real estate, regeneration and infrastructure programmes throughout the UK. Combining commercial excellence, strategic leadership and global capability, they help clients deliver complex projects with confidence.

Our client has built a reputation for technical expertise, independent commercial advice and a collaborative, people-centred culture. They combine the agility of a specialist consultancy with the strength and reach of a global organisation.

As their Infrastructure division continues to expand across the South of England, they are seeking an accomplished Commercial Project Director to lead the commercial delivery of major Energy, Utilities and Infrastructure programmes.

The Role

This is a high-profile leadership opportunity for an experienced commercial professional who thrives in complex delivery environments and enjoys working closely with clients to shape successful outcomes.

You will act as a senior commercial adviser across significant programmes, providing strategic direction, commercial governance and NEC expertise while helping drive the continued growth of the Commercial Management offering.

Operating as a trusted partner to clients and stakeholders, you will lead commercial teams, influence programme-level decisions and contribute to the long-term development of the business across the Southern region.

Reporting to the Director of Infrastructure, you will play a central role in business growth, service delivery, operational performance and team development.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic commercial leadership across major Energy, Utilities and Infrastructure programmes from inception through to final account.
Lead and develop a growing commercial capability across the South of England.
Serve as a senior NEC adviser, supporting clients with contract strategy, risk management and commercial decision-making.
Establish and maintain effective commercial governance frameworks that support successful programme delivery.
Oversee forecasting, cost reporting, valuations, change control, claims management and final account negotiations.
Provide commercial leadership on complex issues requiring senior judgement and stakeholder engagement.
Build trusted relationships with senior client representatives, programme teams and delivery partners.
Lead, mentor and develop commercial professionals across multiple commissions and projects.
Support business development activities including client engagement, bidding, proposals and presentations.
Work collaboratively with senior leadership to shape the future direction and growth of Commercial Management services.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives, embedding best practice and lessons learned across the business.
Support recruitment, succession planning and capability development within the Southern commercial team.
Contribute to regional growth strategies and identify opportunities to expand services and strengthen client relationships.

About You

Essential Experience

Significant experience operating at Senior Commercial Manager, Commercial Lead or Director level within major infrastructure environments.
Strong expertise in NEC3 and NEC4 contract administration and commercial management.
Proven background delivering commercial services across Energy, Utilities or large-scale Infrastructure programmes.
Demonstrated success managing complex commercial portfolios and senior stakeholder relationships.
Degree or HNC qualified in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or a related discipline.
MRICS, MCICES or equivalent professional accreditation.
Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance strategic thinking and practical delivery.
Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing high-profile client relationships.
Established industry network within the Infrastructure, Utilities or Energy sectors.

What They're Looking For

They are seeking an individual who combines strong commercial leadership with the ability to influence, inspire and build trusted relationships.

You'll be:

A strategic thinker with sound commercial judgement.
Comfortable operating at senior stakeholder and board level.
Pragmatic, solutions-focused and delivery-oriented.
Passionate about developing people and creating high-performing teams.
Collaborative, credible and professional in your approach.
Motivated by growth, innovation and continuous improvement.
Confident leading change and driving business performance.

What's on Offer?

This is an opportunity to play a leading role within a growing consultancy.

The successful candidate will benefit from:

The opportunity to lead commercial delivery on nationally significant infrastructure and energy programmes.
A key leadership role with influence over regional growth and business strategy.
Direct engagement with major clients and decision-makers.
The opportunity to shape and expand the Commercial Management service offering across the South.
Flexible working and a supportive, people-focused…