Job Description

My client is embarking on a major programme of upgrades and new developments across their UK estate - large-scale, complex projects where safety, engineering quality and operational continuity are absolutely critical.
To deliver this, they're looking for a hands-on, site-first Construction Manager who has acted as a Principal Contractor (or effectively performed that responsibility) within a UK environment.
Someone who leads from the ground, not the office.
Someone who lives and breathes CDM, safety and compliance. Someone who is at their best on site, every day, guiding contractors, solving problems, and setting the tone.
The Opportunity
For the first 18 months, you'll be fully embedded across sites in Northamptonshire and the East Midlands - playing a pivotal role in delivering major civils and infrastructure projects while ensuring minimal disruption to live operations.
From there, the role expands into a national remit, covering sites across the UK. You'll take end-to-end ownership of project delivery, often staying away Monday-Friday to ensure continuity and momentum on site.
This isn't a desktop role.
It's a role for someone who thrives in the mud, the movement, the technical challenge - and who knows the value of being physically present on the ground.
What You Will Lead

• Acting as the Client's representative for Principal Contractor duties
• Full CDM compliance and site safety leadership
• Contractor management and daily on-site coordination
• RAMS, temporary works and safety documentation
• Ensuring projects hit timelines, quality standards and budgets
• Maintaining operational uptime during construction
• Driving continuous improvement and best practice across sites

Who You Are

• A proven Construction Manager who has worked as (or effectively been) the Principal Contractor
• Experienced in civils, infrastructure, utilities, energy or process plant environments
• Deep understanding of CDM Regulations
• Practical, grounded, straightforward - but strong enough to challenge when needed
• Happy to travel nationally and stay away Mon-Fri
• Someone who doesn't just follow safety standards - they set them
• NEBOSH / SMSTS Qualified

If you want a role where you can genuinely shape delivery, elevate standards, and be the person everyone relies on when the pressure is on - this is an exceptional opportunity.

Skills Required