Job Title: Commercial Director
Salary: £100-120k DOE + Car/Allowance/Bonus and Package
Location: Kettering, Northamptonshire
Infrastructure Gateway Ltd (IGL) is entering a period of significant expansion, and we’re looking for a talented Commercial Director to lead our commercial strategy, drive innovation, and elevate our delivery capability as we scale.
This is a pivotal leadership role, responsible for embedding robust governance, improving visibility of project performance, and building scalable commercial processes that support long‑term, sustainable growth.
If you are a commercially sharp, hands‑on leader who thrives in a growing SME environment and can bring structure, discipline and strategic insight, this role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact.
The Role:
The Commercial Director will take ownership of Infrastructure Gateway Ltd (IGL) commercial operations, ensuring strong governance, accurate forecasting, improved margin visibility and a high‑performing commercial team. You will lead the development of scalable processes, enhance supply chain control, and ensure commercial excellence.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead, mentor and develop the QS and commercial team
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Embed clear standards, structured processes and a culture of accountability
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Support the Board in building a scalable, professional commercial function
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Implement strong processes across bidding, procurement, cost control and forecasting
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Oversee contract compliance (NEC/JCT/ICE) and manage negotiations
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Drive effective risk management and continuous improvement
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Ensure real‑time visibility of project margins and cost performance
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Lead monthly CVRs, forecasting and commercial reviews
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Strengthen commercial awareness across Operations
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Manage key suppliers and subcontractors, negotiating rates and KPIs
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Oversee valuations, payments and commercial controls
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Build long‑term, value‑driven supply chain partnerships
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Drive training, usage discipline and ongoing system improvement
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Ensure accurate commercial data in monthly accounts
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Lead budgeting and forecasting cycles
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Present performance, risks and opportunities to the Board
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Support strategic growth and new market opportunities
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Provide commercial oversight for major bids and tenders
What You’ll Need:
Essential
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Strong commercial background within utilities, civil engineering or infrastructure
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Proven leadership of QS/commercial teams
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Experience implementing or owning a major ERP/commercial system (COINS advantageous)
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Understanding of NERS, GIRS, WIRS and multi‑utility regulatory environments
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Deep experience in subcontractor frameworks, rate negotiations and cost control
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Strong contractual knowledge (NEC, JCT, ICE)
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Ability to drive cultural change and embed new ways of working
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Board‑level communication and stakeholder management
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High numerical, analytical and organisational capability
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Ability to work at pace and manage multiple priorities
Desirable
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Experience supporting business transformation
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Track record improving WIP, profitability and forecasting accuracy
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Experience scaling commercial operations in a growing SME contractor
What You’ll Get in Return:
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Salary: £100,000 - £120,000
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Performance bonus
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Company car or car allowance
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Pension
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Private medical insurance
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The opportunity to build and modernise a commercial function from the ground up
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Significant opportunities for career progression within a wider Group
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The chance to make a significant impact in a business entering its next phase of growth
At South Staffordshire Limited, inclusion matters. We have a wide range of employee networks which are employee-led communities that bring our people together, support different perspectives and create a strong sense of belonging. Our people are encouraged to get involved as members or allies.
We are committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.
We warmly welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including all genders, ethnicity, sexual orientations, and physical and neurodiverse abilities.
We are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments and encourage you to let us know how we can best support you throughout the recruitment process.
