Contract Manager

Location: Scotland

Salary: Competitive

Contract Type: Permanent

What you’ll do:

A hybrid role, combining operational project management with proactive business development. This individual is responsible for identifying and securing new business opportunities while overseeing the successful delivery of projects.
The role requires creating robust project plans, managing client relationships, leading field and operational teams, and ensuring compliance with financial, safety, and contract standards. Acting as a one-stop shop for clients, the role delivers end-to-end ownership from contract acquisition to execution ensuring quality, profitability, and growth for the business.

Key Responsibilities:

Project & Client Delivery
• Oversee full project lifecycles, from planning and mobilisation to delivery and close-out, typically managing multiple contracts.
• Produce full documentation packs and site plans, ensuring operational compliance, H&S standards, and timely completion within budget.
• Be the main point of contact for clients throughout the contract, building trust and delivering on service excellence
• Collaborate with HSQE, commercial and operational leads to ensure best in class delivery. 

Business Development
• Source and secure new client contracts by prospecting, networking, cold outreach, and attending relevant industry events.
• Prepare tailored proposals and support pricing discussions aligned with business margin expectations.
• Identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling services during delivery phases.
Team Leadership
• Recruit, induct, and onboard field teams to meet contract needs or utilise existing field teams.
• Mentor and develop team members to improve performance and capability.
• Allocate resources effectively based on skillsets and project requirements.
Financial & Compliance Oversight
• Monitor budgets and negotiate costs where needed, ensuring adherence to financial targets and risk thresholds.
• Maintain site safety and field team compliance, conducting audits and producing detailed reports for internal and client use.

Growth & Innovation
• Contribute to strategic business development goals and regional growth plans.
• Gather market intelligence and client feedback to drive innovation and service enhancements

What we’re looking for:

Essential Knowledge and Skills:
• 5+ years’ experience in contract/project management within sectors such as arboriculture, rail, facilities management, or environmental services.
• Proven track record in business development or client acquisition in a service-led industry.
• Strong commercial acumen—confident with budgeting, contract negotiation, and pricing.
• Effective leadership and mentoring of both field and office-based teams.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Familiar with project planning software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong understanding of health & safety compliance and risk management.

Desirable Knowledge and Skills:
• Experience in the rail sector or infrastructure environments.
• Cert arb or equivalent in a relevant field.
• COSS and/or SMSTS qualified (or willingness to undertake training).
• Exposure to managing multi-site accounts with complex operational needs.
• Experience delivering or supporting tender bids.

The ideal candidate is a resilient, commercially minded leader who is as comfortable in a client meeting as on-site. With a passion for growing client relationships and a hands-on approach to delivery, they are motivated by both operational excellence and business expansion.

• Takes full ownership and accountability for projects and client outcomes.
• Naturally entrepreneurial—seeks new opportunities and is driven by results.
• Builds trust through transparency, consistency, and clear communication.
• Calm and effective under pressure—able to problem-solve and make critical decisions quickly.
• Balances strategic thinking with tactical execution.
• Embraces change, adapts quickly, and inspires others through positive leadership

Why join us:

Career Development Focus: We’re committed to supporting your professional growth with clear career paths, training, and tailored development programs, including our GC Leadership Academy, job specific accreditations and higher education opportunities.

Exciting Growth Opportunities: Be part of a rapidly growing company with a dynamic team and expanding client base.

Collaborative Environment: Work in a supportive, engaging, and innovative culture where your contributions are valued.

Competitive Package: Enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package, along with flexible working options, including:

23 days holiday, Increasing with length of service + bank holidays

Yearly bonus scheme & Share options

Robust pension scheme

Medigold employee support, Free Flu Jabs, Online private GP Service

Free or subsidised national gym memberships

Employee Recognition Scheme

2 personal choice volunteering days

Ground Control

Ground Control is a UK-based grounds maintenance company powered by the latest technology. Since launching in 1973, Ground Control has grown rapidly and now provides full national coverage for our customers across the UK and Ireland.

We deliver a range of services, including grounds maintenance, winter gritting, landscape construction, design, arboriculture, electric vehicle charging point installation to more than 50,000 commercial properties across the UK.

If you are looking to invest in your future with a business that puts people at the centre of everything, click the apply now button below to speak to a member of our team.

#INDHP

Equal Opportunities Statement

At Ground Control, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive. We believe that diversity drives innovation and success, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate based on age, disability, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We actively support and promote an inclusive culture, ensuring fair and equitable treatment throughout the recruitment process and beyond.