Job Details

Senior Contracts Manager

South Shields, North East UK (Head Office Location)
Full-time | Permanent
Security Clearance Required (SC Level)
Marine / Defence Sector

A leading organisation within the marine and defence industry is seeking an experienced Senior Contracts Manager to join their team at their Head Office in South Shields.

This is a key leadership role overseeing the planning, coordination, and delivery of complex engineering projects on naval vessels, working closely with internal teams, OEMs, contractors, and defence stakeholders.

You will play a critical role in ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in full compliance with defence and regulatory standards.

🔧 Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a multi-disciplinary project/contracts team
• Oversee planning and delivery of vessel upgrade and modification programmes
• Produce detailed work packages, schedules, and technical documentation
• Liaise with defence stakeholders to ensure compliance with standards and regulations
• Manage budgets, cost control, change processes, and resource planning
• Coordinate with OEMs, contractors, and internal departments
• Attend client meetings as lead representative
• Support commercial activities including invoicing and final account negotiations
• Monitor KPIs and report project performance to senior management
• Ensure all work meets safety, quality, and statutory requirements

Requirements

Essential:

• Proven experience in contract or project management within marine, defence, shipbuilding, or heavy engineering
• Engineering qualification (HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Marine, Electrical or similar)
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management experience
• Project management qualification (PRINCE2 / APM / PMP)
• Strong IT skills (MS Office Suite)

Desirable:

• Experience working on MOD / Royal Navy / RFA projects
• Knowledge of classification societies and defence regulations

Benefits

• 23 days annual leave (rising to 25 with service) + bank holidays
• Holiday buy/sell scheme
• Company pension scheme (matched contribution)
• Free on-site parking
• Long-term career progression within a specialist sector

S96

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

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