Lead Commercial Manager
Lead Commercial Manager – Large Scale Office Block
Location: Reading
Salary: £90,000 – £110,000 per annum + comprehensive package
Contract Type: Permanent
Project: £40m Large-Scale Office Block(JCT Design & Build)
Start Date: ASAP
Company Overview
A leading UK main contractor delivering high-value commercial refurbishment and design & build projects is seeking an experienced Lead Commercial Manager to oversee the commercial delivery of a major £40 million Large Scale Office Block in Reading. This is a key strategic role covering pre-construction, delivery, and final account.
Role Purpose
The Lead Commercial Manager will take full commercial ownership of a large-scale office block delivered under JCT Design & Build. Responsibilities include cost management, procurement, change control, supply chain management, commercial reporting, and contractual oversight.
This role is suited to a commercially strong, detail-driven individual with experience delivering significant refurbishment projects for reputable main contractors.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Leadership & Governance
Lead all commercial activity on a £40m office refurbishment project.
Implement commercial controls, governance, and financial reporting processes.
Drive margin protection and commercial risk mitigation.
Provide strategic commercial input to the project and senior leadership teams.Cost Management & Budget Control
Lead cost plans, forecasts, cashflows, and overall budget management.
Oversee procurement strategies, subcontract tendering, and package awards.
Maintain cost certainty via proactive change control and value engineering.
Deliver accurate monthly CVRs and commercial progress reports.Contract Administration
Administer all commercial duties under JCT D&B.
Manage payment applications, variations, compensation events, and claims.
Lead final account negotiations and subcontract settlement.
Recognise and mitigate contractual and commercial risks early.Stakeholder & Client Engagement
Act as the primary commercial contact for the client, PM, and consultants.
Attend and lead commercial sections in progress, design, and coordination meetings.
Build strong working relationships to support smooth project delivery.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and support QS and commercial staff on the project.
Promote strong commercial discipline and clear communication.
Support wider teams including estimating, design, and delivery.
Required Experience & Qualifications
Essential
Significant experience as a Commercial Manager or Senior Quantity Surveyor within a main contractor.
Proven commercial leadership on large-scale office refurbishment projects, ideally £50m+.
Strong background in JCT Design & Build contract administration.
Experience delivering complex refurbishment and structural alteration packages.
Excellent negotiation, commercial reporting, and risk management abilities.
Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or similar (RICS beneficial).
Experience on office CAT A/CAT B refurbishment schemes.
Understanding of complex MEP and structural refurbishment interfaces.
What This Role Offers
Lead the commercial function on a landmark £40m refurbishment in Reading.
Competitive package: £90k–£110k + benefits.
Strategic role with influence over commercial direction and project outcome.
Long-term opportunity with a respected main contractor.
Career progression into senior commercial leadership.
For an experienced Lead Commercial Manager seeking a role with greater responsibility, autonomy, and long-term growth, this opportunity offers the platform to elevate your career.
Interested in discussing a strategic move? Forward your CV to (url removed)