Job Description

Job Title: Project Manager (Commercial/Construction - Education Sector Focus)

Location: Derby area, Derbyshire (hybrid/remote working considered where the role allows; office proximity preferred for collaboration, e.g., near Belper or Ripley - flexible commuting/site visits as required)

Employment Type: Permanent / Contract (depending on project needs)

Salary: Competitive, depending on experience (typically 55,000-80,000+ for mid-senior level Project Managers, plus benefits/package - negotiable based on level)

Reports to: Contracts/Operations Director or Senior Project Manager

About the Role

We are a leading UK construction and commercial main contractor currently delivering multiple high-profile tenders and projects, with a strong pipeline in the education sector. We are seeking experienced Project Managers to lead and deliver ongoing and upcoming works.

This is an excellent opportunity for dynamic, results-driven Project Managers who excel in fast-paced environments with live tenders and multiple projects. You will oversee full project delivery from pre-construction through to handover, ensuring quality, safety, programme adherence, and commercial success--particularly on projects aligned with DfE frameworks (Department for Education standards, output specifications, compliance, and procurement).

Key Responsibilities

Lead projects from inception to practical completion, managing scope, programme, budget, quality, and risk. Develop and maintain detailed project programmes, resource plans, and progress tracking (using tools like Microsoft Project or Asta Powerproject). Coordinate and manage internal teams, subcontractors, consultants, supply chain, and stakeholders to ensure seamless delivery. Oversee site operations, health & safety compliance, and site management (including regular site visits and progress meetings). Monitor and control project costs, variations, change control, and value engineering to protect and maximise margins. Ensure full compliance with contract terms (e.g., JCT, NEC), regulatory requirements, CDM 2015, and sector-specific standards. Liaise with clients, architects, engineers, local authorities, and DfE representatives where applicable. Produce regular project reports, risk registers, KPI tracking, and commercial updates for senior management and clients. Support tender submissions, bid preparation, and pre-construction activities for new opportunities. Drive project handover, defects rectification, and final account processes.
Ideal Candidate Profile

Proven experience as a Project Manager in UK construction/commercial projects (main contractor background preferred, ideally on projects 5m-20m+). Strong track record on DfE-funded or procured projects (e.g., new-build/refurbishment of schools, academies, further education buildings) - highly desirable, including familiarity with DfE frameworks, Generic Design Brief, Technical Annexes, MMC/modular approaches, net-zero requirements, and education-sector compliance/procurement. Experience across various project types (education preferred, but commercial/industrial/refurbishment considered). Degree/HND/HNC in Construction Management, Project Management, Civil Engineering, or equivalent (or qualified by extensive experience). Chartered status or working towards (e.g., MCIOB, MAPM, MRICS, Prince2 Practitioner) advantageous. Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills under pressure. Proficient in project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asta, BIM tools) and standard forms of contract. Full UK driving licence (essential for site visits and multi-project oversight). Ability to work flexibly with multiple live tenders and projects in a demanding environment.
What We Offer

Opportunity to lead high-quality, meaningful projects in the education and commercial sectors. Competitive salary and benefits package (pension, holidays, car allowance, etc.). Supportive team environment with progression opportunities. Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered (e.g., remote for office-based tasks combined with required site/office attendance). Immediate start potential for the right candidate.
If this matches your experience (especially DfE project leadership background), please send your CV and a brief note on your relevant projects to Jamie.moyle@universal-group.uk for immediate consideration.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 60 months

Pay: 55,000.00-85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Work from home
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Derby