Commercial Director

Cognisant Search has been appointed by a privately owned residential developer to appoint a Commercial Director. The business has a growing portfolio of residential developments across London and the South East and is strengthening its senior team as the volume and scale of delivery increases. The Commercial Director will take responsibility for commercial performance across the portfolio, covering both live schemes and future projects from appraisal and procurement through to delivery.

• Lead the commercial function across the portfolio
• Own budgets, forecasts, CVRs and cost-to-complete reporting
• Set procurement strategy and lead major package negotiations
• Maintain control of commercial and contractual risk
• Challenge costs and protect margin
• Provide commercial input into new sites and development appraisals
• Work closely with Development, Technical and Construction teams
• Develop the commercial team and supporting processes
• Provide clear commercial reporting and advice to the Board

You may already be operating as a Commercial Director, or be an experienced Head of Commercial looking to step into a broader leadership role.

You will need a strong understanding of residential development (traditional homes) from a commercial perspective, with experience spanning procurement, cost control, contracts, development appraisals and project delivery.

The business operates with a relatively lean senior team, so this will suit someone who is comfortable remaining close to the detail, making decisions and taking ownership.