Overview:
I’m working on behalf of a Tier One civil engineering contractor seeking an experienced Pre-Construction Manager to lead and shape pre-construction activity across complex infrastructure and multi-utility diversion schemes in urban environments. This role owns the transition from feasibility to construction-ready delivery: de-risking projects, developing robust engineering solutions, coordinating multi-disciplinary design packages and providing clear, commercially grounded input into bids and contracts. Ideal for candidates with proven design leadership, NEC experience and strong stakeholder engagement with statutory undertakers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and control the pre-construction phase, producing construction-ready plans, P6 programmes, budgets and technical deliverables.

• Manage and coordinate multi-disciplinary consultants and design teams across multiple packages, chairing progress and design review meetings.

• Take accountability for engineering solutions, ensuring designs are compliant, buildable and aligned with statutory, client and industry standards.

• Identify, assess and manage project risks and opportunities, implementing robust technical and commercial change-control processes.

• Prepare cost forecasts, value reports and monthly performance updates for project leadership and bid teams.

• Manage site investigations, surveys and temporary works design interfaces; coordinate interactions between permanent and temporary works.

• Lead stakeholder and consent management, including liaison with utility owners and local authorities to secure approvals, permits and wayleaves.

• Translate pre-construction findings into clear commercial assumptions and tender inputs to support competitive NEC-based bids.

• Ensure full compliance with CDM2015 duties and pre-construction HSE requirements.

• Oversee specialist supplier selection and manage their input throughout the pre-construction lifecycle.

Qualifications & Experience:

Essential

• Degree or HNC in Civil Engineering (or equivalent).

• Demonstrable experience delivering pre-construction and design management for drainage and multi-utility diversion works up to approx. £5m.

• Strong working knowledge of NEC3/NEC4 (Options A/B/C/E), commercial controls, forecasting and value reporting.

• Skilled in Primavera P6 (or equivalent) and programme management.

• Proven stakeholder management with utility providers and client-side teams; strong interface and consent management capability.

• Experience coordinating complex design, including temporary-works integration and multidisciplinary design reviews.

Desirable

• Professional membership (ICE, CIHT, MCIOB or equivalent).

• Experience with large-diameter water infrastructure and direct engagement with water companies.

• Familiarity with Open Building Design, ProjectWise or similar design management platforms.

• Certifications such as NEBOSH, SMSTS, CPCS Crane Supervisor, Temporary Works Coordinator.

Benefits:

Competitive salary, pension, private medical cover, life assurance, profit share scheme, enhanced annual leave, flexible benefits and structured professional development.

If you’re ready to take ownership of high-profile utility diversion and infrastructure programmes, this role offers the perfect platform.