Construction Manager

Job Title: Construction Manager (Temporary - 3 Months, Potential for Extension/Permanent)
Location: Wigan & Lancaster (Hybrid: Office, Work from Home & Site Visits)

Job Purpose:

The Construction Manager plays a key role in supporting the Trust’s mission to improve safety and enhance public access to waterways. This role is responsible for delivering maintenance and repair programs that uphold the integrity and reputation of the network. Managing a team of staff and volunteers, the Construction Manager ensures efficient, safe, and high-quality work while maintaining a strong focus on customer service, asset management, and environmental considerations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the delivery of assigned maintenance and construction projects within time and budget constraints. Ensure effective planning, stakeholder communication, and compliance with safety, environmental, and heritage standards.

• Lead and manage a team of up to 15 staff, including site supervisors, agency workers, and volunteers. Support their development, training needs, and performance while fostering a positive work environment.

• Ensure excellent customer service by proactively addressing inquiries, minimizing disruptions, and improving customer satisfaction through well-managed operations.

• Manage financial aspects of assigned projects, including budgeting, cost estimation, expenditure tracking, and efficiency optimization.

• Identify volunteer opportunities and ensure their proper management, supervision, and engagement in safe, high-quality work.

• Optimize resource management, including personnel, contractors, vehicles, equipment, and depots, to ensure safe, effective, and sustainable operations.

• Manage contractor and supplier relationships, ensuring compliance with contract terms, project specifications, and best practices for site management.

• Promote and uphold the Trust’s values, diversity, and inclusion policies in all aspects of work and team interactions.

Key Relationships:

• Internal: Regional Teams, Programme Planning Team, Asset Improvement Team, HR, Hire Desk, Operational Framework Contract Manager.

• External: Volunteers, Contractors, Supply Chain, Adjacent Landowners, Customers.

Knowledge, Experience & Skills:

• Educated to NVQ Level IV / Degree level or equivalent experience.

• NEBOSH National General Certificate in Health & Safety or NVQ equivalent.

• Proven experience in construction, operational, or M&E management, with a track record of delivering projects successfully.

• Strong leadership, team management, and mentoring experience, fostering a positive and productive work culture.

• Customer-focused approach with the ability to balance technical challenges in an infrastructure environment.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

• Experience in contract management, including supplier relations and compliance with contractual obligations.

• Qualified Temporary Works Coordinator with experience in temporary works management.

• Experience in cost estimation and financial planning.

• Valid driver’s license required.

Safety Responsibilities:

• Lead by example in ensuring safety standards are met and that colleagues, volunteers, and the public are protected.

• Ensure proper use of equipment, risk assessments, and method statements.

• Investigate and report incidents, accidents, and near misses.

• Adhere to safeguarding policies to maintain safe environments for children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

This is a temporary 3-month role with the potential for extension or permanent placement based on performance and business needs.