Commercial Manager / Managing QS

Managing Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager Location: Site‑based with visits to Barking & Basildon Salary: Competitive + package Working Pattern: 4 days site/office | 1 day WFH optional Project Value: £75m Start: ASAP

The Opportunity:

We are seeking an experienced Managing Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager to take commercial leadership of a major £75m retrofit and fire safety scheme comprising 367 residential properties across three large blocks.
This is Phase 2 of a wider programme, with works already underway under Phase 1 and scaffold currently on site. Contract signing is expected imminently, so this role requires someone who can hit the ground running, lead procurement, and drive the commercial setup of the project from day one.
The role will be predominantly site‑based with regular collaboration from our Barking and Basildon offices. We work on a 4:1 hybrid model, offering one remote day per week if preferred.

Key Responsibilities

Full commercial management of a £75m live retrofit and fire safety project
Leading procurement strategy and letting major subcontract packages
Managing cost reporting, CVRs, forecasts, and risk
Contract administration, change control, and valuation management
Commercial input into programme and buildability discussions
Managing and mentoring project QS staff
Supporting senior management with commercial strategy and reporting
Ensuring strong commercial governance throughout project delivery

Key Work Packages

The project is a complex residential retrofit impacting all aspects of the buildings, including:

External Wall Insulation (EWI), brickslips & render
M&E
Windows and doors
Piling
New‑build extensions
Flooring and entrance matting
Concrete repairs
Metalwork and demolition
Refuse chutes
Waterproofing
Pergolas and dividing screens
External steel staircases

About You

Proven experience as a Managing QS or Commercial Manager on large‑scale residential projects
Strong background in retrofit, refurbishment, fire safety, or major residential works
Experience managing multi‑package, high‑value schemes (£50m+)
Commercially astute with excellent negotiation and contract management skills
Comfortable working predominantly on site and across multiple offices
Able to mobilise quickly and thrive in a fast‑paced, live project environment