Special Projects Contract Manager (Project)

Role Purpose: The Special Projects Contract Manager will lead the delivery and management of high-risk, safety-critical contracts relating to external wall systems (EWS) across a large residential portfolio. The role will oversee exploratory and investigative works to support building safety compliance, risk mitigation, and remediation strategies, while ensuring robust contract performance, financial control, and legal recovery where applicable. Potentially a one year contract Key Responsibilities Contract & Project Management Manage and oversee safety-critical contracts delivering investigative works across a high volume of buildings. Ensure the successful delivery of surveys and inspections, including: Full FRAEWs (Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls) Spandrel panel investigations Render and facade assessments Fire Risk Assessments (FRA)

Monitor contractor performance against KPIs, service specifications, and programme milestones. Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, guidance (PAS 9980), and internal governance frameworks.

Procurement & Commercial Management Lead end-to-end procurement exercises for new exploratory works contracts, including: Development of Internal procurement Gateway 1 and 2 reports Develpment of specifications and scope Tendering and evaluation Contract award and mobilisation

Manage and administer existing contracts, ensuring value for money and effective delivery. Maintain strong commercial oversight, including cost control, forecasting, and financial reporting.

Performance & Budget Management Lead on performance management of contractors, ensuring delivery to agreed quality, cost, and time standards. Manage budgets associated with investigative and enabling works programmes. Identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring transparency and accountability in expenditure.

Legal & Risk Management Work closely with legal teams to identify and pursue claims against contractors and developers responsible for defective external wall systems. Support the preparation of technical and contractual evidence for legal proceedings. Manage contractual disputes and ensure appropriate escalation and resolution.

Funding & Compliance Lead on applications to the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS) and other funding streams. Ensure compliance with funding requirements and reporting obligations. Coordinate the submission of technical documentation and evidence to support funding bids.

Stakeholder Engagement Engage with internal and external stakeholders including residents, consultants, legal teams, and contractors. Provide clear updates on risks, progress, and key decisions. Support briefing of senior leadership and elected members where required.

Skills & Experience Significant experience in contract management within construction, housing, or building safety. Strong understanding of external wall systems and fire safety regulations. Proven experience managing complex, high-risk projects at scale. Experience of procurement and contract mobilisation. Knowledge of remediation funding schemes (e.g. Cladding Safety Scheme, Building Safety Fund). Strong commercial, legal, and stakeholder management skills.