Senior Project Manager

Quality Manager - Leading Regional Main Contractor (Essex)

Skilled Careers is pleased to be partnering with a rapidly expanding regional main contractor in Essex, searching for a Quality Manager to drive excellence in construction quality and compliance.

The Opportunity: In light of strategic growth plans and new Building Safety Act regulations, our client is seeking a Quality Manager to develop, coordinate, and enhance quality management systems across multiple projects. This newly created role offers the opportunity to shape and refine the company's existing quality framework, implementing improvements that align with best industry practices.

Reporting directly to the SHEQ Manager, this position involves collaboration with key stakeholders, ensuring compliance with the Building Safety Act and associated regulations. Additionally, the role includes mentoring the SHEQ Advisor - Quality Lead and making a significant impact on the development and evolution of the Quality Assurance (QA) system.

About the Company:

• Established for over 30 years

• Current turnover: £70M, with a projected increase to £100M within the next 2-3 years (2026 turnover expected: £91M)

• A stable management team with over 10 years of tenure

• 70% of revenue derived from new build residential schemes, with additional expertise in education, heritage, commercial, and fire remediation projects

• Work-life balance promoted with 1-2 days per week remote working

• Convenient Essex-based offices with onsite parking

• Open-plan, modern office environment

• 23 active projects, with 6 at PCSA stage

• Project values range from £5M to £28M

Key Stakeholders & Interfaces: Collaborating closely with the SHEQ team, Construction Director, Operations Director, Commercial & Business Systems Director, Senior Management, project teams, consultants, subcontractors, and clients.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure compliance with Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ) policies, placing safety as the top priority

• Assist the SHEQ Manager in maintaining and improving the Integrated Management System (IMS), ensuring adherence to ISO 9001 and Building Safety Act regulations

• Support implementation and enhancement of compliance strategies aligned with Building Safety Act requirements

• Oversee quality risk management for new projects, including supplier assessments and risk reviews

• Lead training initiatives on Fire Safety and Building Safety competencies for internal and external stakeholders

• Manage relationships with regulatory bodies, external auditors, and industry stakeholders

• Provide guidance and mentorship to the SHEQ Advisor - Quality Lead, fostering a strong quality-driven culture

• Conduct site inspections and audits, ensuring compliance with quality and regulatory standards

• Oversee Project Quality Plans and Inspection & Test Plans (ITPs), ensuring subcontractor compliance

• Manage and resolve Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), implementing preventive measures

• Represent the company during external audits and ensure accreditation retention for ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001

• Assist with the development and evolution of QA systems, embedding best practice procedures across operations

Qualifications & Experience:

• Proven experience working for a main contractor or developer

• Relevant qualifications in Quality Management (Certified Quality Auditor - CQA or equivalent)

• Member of the Chartered Institute of Building (MCIOB) or equivalent in Construction Management

• QMS Internal Auditor certification (ISO 9001:2015)

• Valid CSCS (Professionally Qualified Person) and SMSTS certification

• In-depth knowledge of ISO 9001 quality management systems and auditing best practices

• Strong technical understanding of construction methodologies and compliance regulations

• Confident leadership skills with experience conducting audits and stakeholder meetings

• A pragmatic approach to SHEQ advisory in complex construction environments

• Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively within cross-functional teams

• Strong analytical skills, with an ability to assess complex regulatory requirements

• Excellent communication and influencing abilities at all levels, from site operatives to senior leadership

• Proficient in data analysis, reporting, and IT systems relevant to quality management

How to Apply: If you are interested in this opportunity, apply now or contact Lee at 0771 1370 553 for further details.