Contract Manager

Contract: Full-Time, Permanent

Salary: Circa £75,000 - £85,000 (dependent on experience) + benefits

Location: South‑East England (ideally based within comfortable commuting distance of project activity in London and Essex)

Are you an experienced Contract Manager who thrives on building strong supplier relationships, negotiating commercial outcomes, and keeping complex projects running smoothly?

Do you enjoy being the go‑to subject matter expert, balancing operational needs, commercial risk, and a positive Health & Safety culture?

If so, this could be the perfect next step for you.

About the Role

We’re looking for an experienced Contract Manager to take ownership of a diverse portfolio of contracts across the full lifecycle, from drafting and negotiation through to renewal and close‑out. You’ll be the central link between suppliers, internal teams, and legal advisors, ensuring every agreement delivers value, mitigates risk, and supports our organisational objectives. This role also plays a key part in reinforcing our strong Health & Safety culture across all commercial activities.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating a wide range of contracts, including commercial agreements and supplier arrangements.

• Ensuring compliance with organisational policies and UK legislation while promoting safe working practices.

• Managing the full contract lifecycle, maintaining accurate documentation throughout.

• Identifying and mitigating contractual risks, offering practical guidance to stakeholders.

• Collaborating with Procurement, Legal, Finance, and Project Management teams to ensure contractual obligations are met.

• Monitoring supplier and client performance, including Health & Safety behaviours.

• Supporting tender processes, bid evaluations, and negotiations.

What You’ll Bring

• Proven experience in contract management or a similar commercial role.

• A strong background in construction‑related projects, including experience with JCT and NEC3/4 contracts.

• Solid understanding of procurement processes, contract governance, and commercial risk.

• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.

• Strong organisational abilities and comfort managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

• A collaborative approach and the ability to build strong relationships both internally and externally.

• A commitment to maintaining high standards of accuracy, professionalism, and safety.

• Professional certifications (e.g. CIPS, IACCM) are welcome but not essential.

• Strong legal acumen, with a clear understanding of contract law, regulatory requirements, and compliance best practice.

• Financial and commercial awareness, including experience supporting budget management and identifying opportunities to deliver cost‑effective outcomes.

• Confidence in interpreting commercial data and offering insight that enhances value and reduces risk across the contract lifecycle.

What Success Looks Like in This Role

• Smooth, compliant contract execution with minimal risk exposure.

• Strong supplier relationships and visible alignment with our Health & Safety culture.

• Improved procurement processes and operational efficiency.

• Continuous improvement initiatives that enhance performance across the business.

Why Join Kensa?

At Kensa, our people are our greatest strength. We’re committed to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where you can thrive and make a real difference. Here’s what you can expect:

• Flexible Working: Hybrid and office‑based options to suit your lifestyle.

• Growth & Development: Opportunities to stretch and develop your skills through meaningful, collaborative work.

• Wellbeing Support: Free, confidential Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family.

• Time Off: 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays, rising to 30 with service.

• Health & Security: Company pension and Private Health Insurance after one year.

• Sustainable Travel: Cycle to Work Scheme to help reduce your carbon footprint.

• Community Impact: Paid volunteering days and regular team events.

• Dog‑Friendly Offices: Some of our sites, including HQ, welcome four‑legged friends.

Ready to Join Us? If you’re a strategic thinker with strong commercial instincts and a passion for getting contracts right first time, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and help us build strong, safe, and successful partnerships.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities. If you need any adjustments during the application process, just let us know, we’re happy to support you.

You’re welcome (but not required) to include a brief cover note telling us what draws you to Kensa and how your experience aligns with this role.