Contract Operations Manager (New Build Residential Carpentry)

Contract Operations Manager (New Build Residential Carpentry)
Location: Berkshire, Hampshire & Surrounding Areas (M4/M3 Corridor)
Reports To: Associate Director and Directors
Salary: 40K - 50K (dependent on experience)
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

Why Join Us

For over 25 years, we've built our reputation as a trusted carpentry contractor for Tier 1 developers and principal contractors by combining quality work with a people-first approach. Founded on the principle of treating people better than they experienced on-site, our culture is built on fairness, respect, and opportunity.

As Contract Operations Manager, you'll manage projects, lead teams, and help shape the business. With strong progression opportunities, benefits (company van, fuel card, Pirkx, and EV salary sacrifice scheme), and a supportive environment, this is a chance to grow your career in a company where people matter. Our workforce delivers high-quality first and second fix carpentry and timber works, meeting strict safety and regulatory standards.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Contract Operations Manager with strong knowledge of UK building regulations, fire safety compliance, and fire ratings in carpentry. You'll oversee multiple residential projects, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.

Reporting to the Operations Directors and Associate Director, you'll collaborate with peers across operations. In line with our ethos, this role is about more than managing contracts - it's about leading people fairly, fostering respect on site, and creating an environment where both employees and subcontractors thrive.

This role also offers scope to drive improvements, support business growth, and strengthen our position as a trusted partner.

Key Responsibilities

* Deliver carpentry contracts across multiple new build housing sites.
* Report to senior leadership on project performance.
* Collaborate with fellow Operations Managers and the wider team.
* Act as main contact with developers, contractors, site teams, and clients.
* Plan, resource, and manage costs to meet contractual obligations.
* Ensure works comply with UK Building Regulations, drawings, and NHBC standards.
* Provide guidance on fire ratings, compartmentation, and passive fire protection.
* Carry out site visits, quality inspections, and progress meetings.
* Supervise carpenters and subcontractors, ensuring high standards of craft, safety, and productivity.
* Support supervisors and site teams to meet programme milestones.
* Maintain accurate project records for compliance, commercial, and contractual purposes, using digital tools and platforms.
* Liaise with NHBC on technical queries, inspections, and compliance.
* Conduct Health & Safety inspections and Toolbox Talks, providing evidence of compliance.
* Manage variations, valuations, and reporting with QS and commercial teams.
* Ensure compliance with CDM Regulations and company policies.
* Resolve technical issues, defects, and client queries quickly and effectively.

Skills & Experience Required

* Experience as a Contract Operations Manager, Project Manager, or Senior Site Manager in residential construction.
* Strong technical knowledge of UK Building Regulations, particularly regarding carpentry quality standards, fire safety, and compliance.
* Extended H&S qualifications (Managers Health & Safety Training)
* Track record managing carpentry packages for large-scale residential new build developments.
* Shown ability to manage employees and subcontractors, balancing workforce planning with quality and performance requirements.
* Excellent commercial awareness with the ability to manage budgets, costs, contract variations, and specification and design changes.
* Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
* Proven ability to influence change, drive improvements, and contribute to the long-term growth of the business.
* Demonstrated ability to keep comprehensive records and prepare clear documentation for clients, governing bodies, and internal use.
* Confident in liaising with NHBC inspectors and Health & Safety officers, ensuring compliance and resolving issues effectively.
* Competent in MS Office, project management software, and digital reporting tools.
* Relevant qualifications (e.g., SMSTS, CSCS Black/Gold card, NVQ Level 6, or equivalent).

Preferably

* Prior hands-on experience working as a carpenter, with a strong understanding of site-based challenges and practical solutions.
* Carpentry Qualifications: NVQ or work for a specialist trade contractor
* SMSTS - Site Management Training Scheme
* Crane Supervisor or Appointed Person
* Formal training or certification in fire safety or passive fire protection.
* NVQ 6 Construction Site Management
* Membership of CIOB, RICS, or similar professional body.
* Experience in value engineering, timber frame installation, and/or modern methods of construction (MMC).

What We Offer

* Competitive salary and benefits.
* Company van and fuel card.
* Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme.
* Opportunities to work with Tier 1 developers and main contractors on high-profile projects.
* Career progression within a growing, specialist carpentry contractor.
* A supportive culture built on respect and fairness - true to our founding ethos.
* The chance to play a key role in shaping the company's future success.

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