Contract Manager Berkshire

Contract Manager – Reading, Berkshire

Contract:

Permanent. Salary: £46,500 to £55,000 per annum, depending on experience and skills. Thames Water is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to join our expanding team. This role will be based in our offices in Reading.

You will receive a competitive salary plus a great benefits package including a car allowance, contributory pension, annual pay review, season ticket loans, loyalty awards for continuous service, and more.

In your role as Contracts Manager you will be responsible for managing a portfolio of Thames Water operational contracts. Driving performance, developing supplier relationships, identifying commercial opportunities and service improvements will be key activities. The role will also include line management of a small number of staff.

This role is located within Thames Water’s Operational Projects and Logistics Team (OPAL). Current contracts cover several key business activities, including waste network services, leak detection, fleet services, haulage, plant and equipment hire, facilities management, waste management and many more. OPAL contracts play a key role in the overall operation of Thames Water’s activities and are high profile within the business.

• Manage supplier relationships, acting as the named contract signatory for contractual matters on a portfolio of contracts.
• Manage the performance of contractors by the relevant contract requirements and business operational needs, to ensure the best value and services from suppliers are achieved.
• Build relationships with key stakeholders and communicate relevant contract information as required.
• Identify and implement opportunities/improvements for commercial efficiencies across operational activities and contracts.
• Lead on contract negotiations and implementation of contract variations as required.
• Provide contract‑related issue resolution for any arising disputes with suppliers.
• Ensure that all processes followed are in line with legislation and company policies and are auditable with key documents, information and communications confidentially stored.
• Line manage a small number of Contract Performance Coordinators to assist with day‑to‑day running of the contracts.
• Complete contract close‑out, reviewing contracts for extension or renewal, and assisting procurement teams where applicable for re‑procurement.

We are seeking an experienced contract manager with demonstrable experience in managing operational contracts, a strong technical understanding of commercial and contract management, keen attention to detail, good analytical skills, excellent written skills, and the ability to communicate information and influence key stakeholders at all levels.

• Salary: £46,500 to £55,000 per annum, depending on experience and skills.
• 26 days holiday per year, increasing to 30 with length of service (plus bank holidays).
• Contributory pension – Defined Contribution – maximum of 12% with 2x employee contribution.
• Personal medical assessments – open to all once a year.
• Performance‑related pay plan directly linked to company performance measures and targets.
• A wider benefits scheme, including our benefits hub, offering savings and support for your well‑being.