We are a Chinese-invested property developer with a growing presence in the UK market, currently delivering residential and mixed-use projects across key London locations. Backed by strong financial resources and a long-term strategic commitment from our Group, we are entering a rapid growth phase in our UK operations.
Unlike many developers in the market, we operate with a highly integrated project delivery model—retaining direct operational control over design quality, supply chain management, and cost control. This means our commercial team is not a traditional “consultant oversight” function, but a value-creating partner deeply engaged throughout the full project lifecycle.
Job Summary
As Commercial Director, you will be a key member of the UK leadership team, taking full ownership of end-to-end commercial management across our development projects—from land acquisition feasibility and development appraisals, through procurement strategy and contract negotiation, to cost control during construction and final account settlement.
This is a highly hands‑on director‑level role. We are not looking for a pure consultant or remote management profile. We seek a leader with a solid QS background and practical site‑facing experience, capable of personally producing and reviewing cost analysis at the required level of detail. You will lead a lean, high‑performing commercial team, report directly to the Group Chairman, and contribute to strategic business decisions at board level.
Key Accountabilities
Cost Planning & Control
- Establish and maintain project cost benchmarks (£/m² GIA), segmented by building type, height, and discipline
- Lead cost forecasting, tracking, variance analysis, and corrective actions across RIBA Stages 0–6
- Lead value engineering with quantifiable savings without compromising design quality or planning consent
- Provide cost data and commercial input for land acquisitions, feasibility studies, and development appraisals
- Tailor procurement routes to project specifics, design maturity, and market conditions
- Lead drafting and negotiation of contracts with main contractors, specialist subcontractors, and suppliers (JCT framework)
- Define clear contractual interfaces: scope boundaries, pricing units, payment schedules, remedy and mitigation clauses
- Manage supply chain relationships to ensure procurement decisions meet quality, programme, and cost objectives
Supply Chain & Subcontractor Management
- Establish and manage multi‑tier contractual chains covering main contractors, subcontractors, and material/equipment suppliers
- Identify and mitigate supply chain risks (payment delays, programme slippage, quality disputes)
- Build and maintain long‑term strategic relationships with subcontractors and supply chain partners
Commercial Reporting & Decision Support
- Produce regular cost reports, cash flow forecasts, risk registers, and CVR reports
- Clearly explain commercial logic, market differences, and decision rationale to the Group Chairman and Board
- Collaborate closely with design, planning, construction, and finance teams to align commercial and project objectives
- Degree in Quantity Surveying or related discipline; must have started from hands‑on QS roles with site‑facing experience
- 10+ years in commercial management for UK development or main contracting, with at least 5 years at Senior Manager or Director level
- Full involvement in at least 2 London residential or mixed‑use projects (from feasibility to final account)
- Deep expertise in JCT contract forms; familiarity with residential development delivery models
- Proficient in cost reports, change management tools, cash flow forecasts, risk registers, and CVR reporting
- Proven team leadership experience with ability to inspire, develop, and mentor team members
Preferred Qualifications
- RICS chartered status
- Prior commercial leadership role at a major UK developer or main contractor
- Hands‑on experience in dispute resolution, claims, and arbitration
- Experience with Chinese‑invested real estate firms or understanding of Chinese developer management culture
- Familiarity with affordable housing contract frameworks and delivery models
What We Offer
- Core leadership role in a fast‑growing UK platform with direct strategic influence
- Competitive compensation with long‑term incentive potential
- High autonomy in a flat organisational structure
- A genuine opportunity to shape team, systems, and strategy within a growing business
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