Job Summary
We are seeking a highly experienced, commercially astute Senior Quantity Surveyor to take full ownership of the commercial and financial management across a portfolio of social housing, private residential, and retrofit/renewable energy projects. This is a critical leadership position that requires a seasoned professional with a proven track record in managing complex cost structures, leading commercial functions, and delivering projects within strict financial controls.
The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the entire commercial lifecycle—from feasibility and cost planning, through procurement and delivery, to final account settlement. You will bring exceptional numerical accuracy, advanced cost tracking capability, and strategic financial oversight, ensuring robust budget management and value optimisation at every stage. Experience in retrofit programmes—including energy efficiency upgrades, insulation, heating system replacements, and associated works—is a key requirement of this role.
This role demands an individual who has extensive prior management experience, capable of leading and mentoring junior commercial staff, influencing senior stakeholders, and driving best practice across all commercial activities. Your ability to interpret data, manage risk, and control costs will be fundamental to the success of the programme.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the full commercial function across multiple projects, ensuring rigorous financial governance and accountability at all stages of delivery
- Prepare and oversee detailed, high-value cost plans, estimates, and budgets, ensuring accuracy and alignment with project objectives
- Implement and manage robust cost tracking systems, closely monitoring expenditure, cash flow, and forecasts to maintain strict financial control
- Conduct in-depth financial analysis, identifying cost trends, risks, and opportunities, and driving proactive corrective actions
- Take ownership of procurement strategies, including tender preparation, bid evaluation, and commercial negotiations with subcontractors and suppliers
- Exercise strong contractual leadership, managing all aspects of contract administration, ensuring compliance, and protecting company interests
- Lead negotiations on variations, claims, and final accounts, leveraging experience to minimise financial risk while maximising value
- Manage the commercial delivery of retrofit programmes, including cost planning for energy efficiency measures, fabric improvements, heating system upgrades, and renewable energy installations
- Ensure accurate cost reporting and forecasting across retrofit and renewable energy workstreams, maintaining compliance with funding and grant requirements where applicable
- Collaborate closely with project managers, site teams, and senior stakeholders to align commercial strategy with programme delivery
- Carry out regular site visits to validate progress, verify valuations, and ensure cost reporting reflects actual delivery status
- Produce comprehensive financial reports, including cost value reconciliations (CVRs), forecasts, and variance analysis for senior management review
- Mentor and support junior surveyors, providing guidance, training, and performance oversight to build a strong commercial team
- Ensure adherence to health & safety, contractual, and regulatory requirements, maintaining high standards across all projects
Qualifications & Experience
- Extensive experience as a Senior Quantity Surveyor or in a comparable leadership role, within social housing and/or residential construction
- Demonstrable experience managing the commercial delivery of retrofit programmes, including whole-house or multi-measure energy efficiency works, PAS 2035-compliant projects, or government-funded schemes such as ECO, SHDF, or LAD
- Experience in renewable energy installations (e.g., solar PV, heat pumps, battery storage) from a commercial management perspective is highly desirable
- Demonstrable management experience, including overseeing commercial teams and driving performance across multiple projects
- Exceptional numerical and analytical skills, with a proven ability to manage complex financial data, cost reporting, and forecasting with precision
- Strong track record in cost control, budget management, and financial governance, with the ability to maintain strict oversight in fast-paced environments
- Advanced knowledge of contract management (e.g., JCT/NEC), procurement strategies, and commercial risk mitigation
- Familiarity with retrofit-specific procurement considerations, including supply chain constraints, specialist subcontractor management, and material cost volatility
- Deep understanding of site operations, construction processes, and project delivery frameworks
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with confidence engaging at senior levels
- Highly organised, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities without compromising accuracy
- Relevant degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related field (MRICS or equivalent professional accreditation desirable)
Why Join Us?
This is a unique opportunity for a senior commercial professional to play a key role in delivering impactful social housing, residential, and retrofit projects. You will be joining a forward-thinking organisation at the forefront of the UK’s energy transition, where your expertise in cost management, financial control, and commercial leadership will directly influence project success.
We offer a dynamic and growing environment where your experience is valued, your leadership is trusted, and your contribution will drive both project outcomes and continuous improvement across the business.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £65,000.00-£75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Education:
Experience:
- Cost control: 5 years (required)
Location:
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: In person
