Job Description

Who We Are:

Cardo Group is a trusted provider of building maintenance, refurbishment, and retrofit services for social housing and public sector buildings across the UK. With nationwide coverage and skilled local teams, we deliver a reliable end-to-end service that ensures homes and public spaces are safe, sustainable, and well-maintained.

We specialise in responsive repairs and voids, planned maintenance, energy-efficiency upgrades, compliance works, and major improvement programmes. Our approach combines quality workmanship, strong resident communication, and efficient project delivery to achieve the best outcomes for customers and communities.

Driven by ambitious growth plans, we continue to expand our capabilities and adapt to the evolving needs of our clients. Our reputation is built on consistent service delivery, trusted partnerships, and a commitment to doing things the right way. As we grow, so do the opportunities – for our people, our clients, and the communities we support.

Cardo Group is becoming one of the UK’s most forward-thinking maintenance and retrofit providers. Do you want to be part of something great?

We are currently recruiting for a Senior Contracts Manager - Planned Works to join our team in Kingston Upon Thames.

The Senior Contract Manager is responsible for the strategic and operational management of planned works programmes across a social housing portfolio.

The role ensures the successful delivery of capital investment, refurbishment, and cyclical maintenance projects, achieving high standards of quality, compliance, customer satisfaction, and value for money.

The successful candidate will lead contract performance, manage internal teams and external contractors, and ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in line with regulatory requirements and organisational objectives.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the delivery of planned investment and refurbishment programmes including:
• Kitchen and bathroom replacements.
• Roofing works.
• Window and door replacements.
• External decorations.
• Heating upgrades.
• Energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects.
• Major capital works programmes.
• Manage multiple contracts and frameworks to ensure service delivery meets agreed KPIs and performance standards.
• Develop and implement annual investment programmes and long-term asset strategies.
• Monitor contract performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Manage substantial budgets and ensure projects are delivered within approved financial parameters.
• Forecast expenditure and monitor cash flow.
• Review valuations, variations, and final accounts.
• Ensure value for money and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Prepare reports and business cases for senior leadership.
• Provide leadership and direction to Contract Managers, Surveyors, Clerks of Works, and administrative teams.
• Develop a high-performing culture through coaching and performance management.
• Ensure appropriate resource planning and succession development.
• Build effective relationships with contractors, consultants, and supply chain partners.
• Chair progress meetings and performance reviews.
• Resolve contractual disputes and manage escalations.
• Engage with residents and resident groups to minimise disruption and improve customer satisfaction.
• Work collaboratively with internal departments including finance, procurement, compliance, and housing management teams.

You Will Need:

• Significant experience managing planned works programmes within social housing.
• Full UK driving license
• Experience managing large-scale capital investment projects and budgets.
• Strong contractor and supply chain management experience.
• Experience of NEC, JCT, or partnering contracts.
• Knowledge of procurement and framework arrangements.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams.
• Proven ability to deliver projects safely, on time, and within budget.
• Experience of resident engagement and complaint resolution.
• Degree, HNC/HND, or equivalent qualification in Building, Construction, Surveying, or a related discipline.
• Professional membership or working towards membership of:
• CIOB.
• RICS.
• CIH.
• CICES.
• SMSTS certification.

We Will Provide:

• Excellent development and progression opportunities
• 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays
• Range of Salary Sacrifice Schemes [holiday purchase, EV schemes, AVC Pension contributions]
• Life Assurance cover
• Wellbeing Resources and Counselling services
• Retail & Lifestyle Discount Platform
• Enhanced Family Leave Provisions
• Recognition initiatives and awards
• Occupational Sick Pay
• Private Medical Insurance

Please note all our roles are subject to Background, Identity & Security checks before commencement of employment.

Why Join Cardo Group?

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. Diverse perspectives strengthen our business, drive innovation, and help us better serve the communities we work with.

Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion is rooted in our core values:

• Teamwork – We collaborate, support one another, and achieve more together.
• Integrity – We act with honesty, fairness, and transparency in everything we do.
• Excellence – We set high standards and deliver quality for our people and our customers.
• Respect – We value every individual and create a space where all voices are heard.

We ensure fair opportunities, embrace diverse backgrounds and experiences, and foster a culture where everyone truly belongs. Join us on our ambitious, exciting, and inclusive journey.