Job DescriptionSenior Construction Estimator / Commercial Manager
Location: 31 Bell Street, Reigate
Reporting to: Managing Director
Salary: £50,000.00 - £65,000.00
About Us
We are a specialist high-end domestic construction company delivering exceptional renovations, extensions and bespoke new-build homes across the South East. We manage between 8–10 live projects at any one time, ranging in value from £150,000 to £1 million
Our reputation is built on quality craftsmanship, attention to detail and delivering outstanding client experiences. We are looking for an experienced Senior Estimator / Commercial Manager to become a key member of our leadership team and help drive the continued growth and profitability of the business.
The Role
This is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing all estimating and commercial functions across the business.
The successful candidate will lead the tendering process from initial enquiry through to contract award, whilst managing the commercial performance of live projects to maximise profitability, minimise risk and ensure strong financial control.
You will work closely with the Managing Director, Project Managers, Site Managers and our supply chain to ensure every project is commercially successful.
Key ResponsibilitiesEstimating
- Prepare accurate and competitive tenders for high-end residential projects.
- Review architectural drawings, specifications and tender documentation.
- Produce detailed cost plans, budgets and pricing schedules.
- Obtain and analyse subcontractor and supplier quotations.
- Identify value engineering opportunities without compromising quality.
- Present tender submissions to the Managing Director.
- Assist in securing new work and maintaining tender success rates.
Commercial Management
- Manage the commercial performance of 8–10 live projects.
- Produce and monitor project budgets and cost forecasts.
- Procure subcontractors and negotiate package agreements.
- Prepare subcontract orders and manage contractual obligations.
- Review variations, change orders and client instructions.
- Manage interim valuations and payment applications.
- Monitor project cash flow and profitability.
- Prepare and negotiate final accounts.
- Identify commercial risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Procurement
- Develop procurement programmes aligned with project schedules.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with trusted subcontractors and suppliers.
- Negotiate competitive rates while maintaining quality standards.
- Monitor market pricing and material cost trends.
Financial Control
- Produce monthly commercial reports.
- Track project margins against tender allowances.
- Monitor labour, subcontract and material costs.
- Support forecasting and business planning.
- Ensure projects remain commercially viable throughout delivery.
Leadership
- Work closely with Project Managers to ensure commercial objectives are achieved.
- Mentor junior estimators or commercial staff where required.
- Attend client meetings and design team meetings.
- Contribute to business improvement initiatives and company strategy.
- Promote a collaborative and professional working culture.
Essential Experience
- Minimum 8 years' experience in estimating and commercial management.
- Proven background within high-end residential construction.
- Experience pricing refurbishment, extension and bespoke new-build projects.
- Strong knowledge of construction methods and sequencing.
- Experience managing multiple live projects simultaneously.
- Strong negotiation skills.
- Excellent commercial awareness.
- High level of attention to detail.
Skills
- Excellent numerical ability.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to interpret architectural drawings.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Commercially driven with a proactive mindset.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- Confident using estimating software and Microsoft Excel.
- Ability to build long-term relationships with clients and supply chain partners.
Personal Attributes
We are looking for someone who:
- Takes ownership and accountability.
- Has exceptional attention to detail.
- Leads by example.
- Is calm under pressure.
- Thinks commercially while maintaining quality.
- Enjoys working within a close-knit team.
- Has a passion for delivering exceptional homes.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Tender conversion rate.
- Gross profit achieved versus tender margin.
- Accuracy of project cost forecasting.
- Procurement savings achieved.
- Variation recovery.
- Final account recovery.
- Project cash flow performance.
- Subcontractor and supplier performance.
- Reduction in commercial risk and cost overruns.
What We Offer
- Mobile phone and laptop.
- Opportunity to influence business strategy and growth.
- A senior leadership role within an established, respected high-end residential contractor.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in a growing business where your commercial expertise will directly influence project success, profitability and the future direction of the company. You'll work on some of the finest private residential projects in the region, collaborating with discerning clients, leading architects and skilled craftspeople to deliver homes of exceptional quality.
Pay: £50,000.00-£65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
