Commercial Manager
Role: Commercial Manager
Reporting to: Directors
Team Leadership: Quantity Surveyors & Estimators
Contract Type: Permanent
A well‑established regional main contractor in Portsmouth is seeking an experienced Commercial Manager to take a key leadership role within their growing business. This is a senior-level position offering the opportunity to work directly with the company's directors while overseeing the commercial performance of multiple live projects and leading a high‑performing team of Quantity Surveyors and Estimators.
The Role
As Commercial Manager, you will play a central role in the business, responsible for driving commercial strategy, ensuring strong financial performance, and supporting project teams across a diverse portfolio of work. You will lead, mentor, and develop a team of QSs and Estimators while maintaining strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and the senior leadership team.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage the commercial department, including QSs and Estimators
Report directly into the board of directors with commercial updates and forecasts
Oversee tendering, cost planning, procurement, and contract negotiations
Monitor and manage budgets, cashflow, variations, and commercial risk
Provide commercial guidance across multiple projects simultaneously
Strengthen commercial processes and ensure compliance across the business
Support business growth through strategic input and commercial leadership
Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture within the commercial team
Requirements
Proven experience as a Commercial Manager or Senior QS ready to step up
Background working for a main contractor within the construction sector
Strong commercial awareness and a track record of delivering profitable projects
Ability to manage, support, and develop a team
Excellent communication, negotiation, and leadership skills
Strong understanding of contracts, procurement, and commercial procedures
Ambitious, proactive, and comfortable engaging at director level
What's on Offer
Competitive salary and package (DOE)
Senior-level position with genuine influence on business direction
Opportunity to lead a talented commercial team
Long-term career prospects with a respected regional contractor
Supportive leadership and a stable pipeline of projects