Small Works Manager

Construction Small Works Manager - Job Description

Role Overview

The Construction Small Works Manager is responsible for the successful delivery of multiple small-to-medium construction projects ranging from £150,000 to £1.5 million. Operating across the NHS, Education, and Leisure sectors, the role oversees projects from initial scoping through to handover, ensuring they are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. The manager will lead site teams, coordinate subcontractors, maintain client relationships, and ensure compliance with all statutory and contractual obligations.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery - Lead end‑to‑end management of multiple small works projects, ensuring programme, cost, quality, and safety targets are met.

Client Liaison - Act as the primary point of contact for NHS Trusts, schools, academies, leisure operators, and other stakeholders.

Programme Management - Develop, monitor, and update project programmes, identifying risks and implementing mitigation strategies.

Commercial Control - Work with commercial teams to manage budgets, variations, valuations, procurement, and cost reporting.

Health & Safety Compliance - Ensure all works comply with CDM Regulations, RAMS, safeguarding requirements, and sector‑specific protocols (e.g., live NHS environments).

Quality Assurance - Maintain high workmanship standards, conduct inspections, and ensure all documentation is completed for handover.

Team Leadership - Manage site managers, supervisors, and subcontractors, promoting a positive, safe, and productive working culture.

Stakeholder Coordination - Coordinate with design teams, building control, estates departments, and specialist consultants.

Reporting & Documentation - Produce progress reports, maintain project records, and ensure compliance with internal and external audit requirements.

Essential Skills & Experience

Sector Experience delivering construction projects within NHS, Education, or Leisure environments, ideally in live/occupied settings.

Project Management Expertise with a proven track record of delivering projects £150k-£1.5m.

Strong understanding of CDM Regulations, H&S legislation, and safeguarding requirements.

Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and competing priorities.

Excellent communication, negotiation, and client‑facing skills.

Competence in reading drawings, specifications, and technical documents.

Proficiency with project management tools and Microsoft Office.

Full UK driving licence.

Desirable Qualifications

SMSTS or equivalent site safety qualification.

CSCS Manager's Card.

HNC/HND or degree in Construction Management or related discipline.

First Aid at Work.

Experience with NEC or JCT contracts.

Personal Attributes

Proactive Leadership - Able to anticipate issues and drive solutions.

Client‑Focused Mindset - Builds trust and long‑term relationships.

Organised & Detail‑Driven - Strong planning and documentation discipline.

Calm Under Pressure - Comfortable working in fast‑paced, live environments.

Team Player - Collaborative, supportive, and able to motivate others.

Typical Projects

NHS ward refurbishments, minor capital works, fire safety upgrades.

School classroom refurbishments, accessibility improvements, M&E upgrades.

Leisure centre facility improvements, changing room refurbishments, plant room works
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed