Contract Manager

Contract ManagerLocation: Houghton Regis (Office Based) This is not site basedHours: 45 hours per weekWe are looking to appoint a high-performing experienced Contract Manager to take full ownership of a reactive repairs contract .This is a fully office-based role with accountability for operational delivery, commercial performance, and client relationships, leading office teams and managing a dispersed frontline workforce.What Success Looks LikeSuccess in this role is delivering a high-performing, well-controlled contract where KPIs, customer satisfaction, and margin are consistently achieved supported by a structured, accountable team and strong client confidence in delivery.The RoleYou will act as the owner of the contract, responsible for ensuring service delivery is consistently achieved in line with KPI, SLA, and commercial targets, while maintaining compliance and driving continuous improvement.Key ResponsibilitiesTake full ownership of contract performance, ensuring KPIs, SLAs, and client expectations are met and exceededLead and manage office-based scheduling teams (planners/controllers), driving structure, discipline, and accountabilityManage and drive performance of a dispersed workforce, including operatives, supervisors, and subcontractorsEnsure effective resource planning and capacity management to meet demand in a fast-paced environmentTake ownership of P&L performance, including cost control, forecasting, and margin deliveryManage works in line with Schedule of Rates (SOR) and commercial frameworksEnsure full compliance with health & safety, statutory obligations, and internal governanceAct as the primary escalation point for operational issues, including complaints, disrepair cases, and service failuresBuild and maintain strong client relationships, acting as the main point of contactMonitor and analyse performance data, identifying risks and driving corrective actionDrive a culture of continuous improvement, challenging underperformance and embedding changeEnsure effective coordination between office teams, supply chain partners, and field operativesProvide clear and accurate operational and financial reporting to senior leadershipAbout YouProven experience in a fast-paced, time-critical operational environment (essential)Experience managing a dispersed frontline workforce (essential)Experience managing a commercial contract with full P&L responsibility (essential)Strong understanding of KPI-driven service delivery environmentsCommercially aware, with the ability to manage cost, performance, and marginExperience leading planners/schedulers and coordinating field-based teamsKnowledge of health & safety and compliance within an operational settingConfident managing client relationships and handling escalationsOrganised, resilient, and solutions-focused under pressureDesirable:Social housing / reactive repairs / maintenance experienceExperience operating within SOR-based contractsAbout GilmartinsGilmartins is a family-owned business where people are valued and performance is recognised.We promote from within and give our managers real ownership of their contracts this is not a heavily layered corporate environment. You will have the autonomy to make decisions, improve performance, and shape your team.We operate within social housing, delivering reactive repairs to housing associations and local authorities, and pride ourselves on being operationally focused, responsive, and accountable.Our head office is based at Houghton Hall Park, Houghton Regis a modern, well-equipped working environment supporting a high-performing team culture.What We OfferClear progression opportunities within a growing businessSalary and bonus structure appropriate to experience28 days annual leave (including bank holidaysTPBN1_UKTJ