Commercial Manager- Real estate developer

Overview

In this role you will own cost control across design and build developments for a UK property group focused on student housing, build-to-rent, hotels and commercial space. You will work with development, design and contracting teams to keep schemes within budget, influence design affordability, and manage procurement and variations. You’ll engage external partners and report progress to senior stakeholders, shaping investment-ready proposals and project outcomes. This is a hands-on, commercially driven position with a clear impact on margin and project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Build and monitor cost plans and budgets aligned with investment limits
• Maintain up-to-date cost estimates, procurement programs and cash flow forecasts
• Collaborate with development managers and designers to ensure affordability and buildability
• Source and manage contractors and suppliers to secure competitive pricing
• Prepare tender packages, evaluate bids, and advise on recommendations
• Manage change control and assess cost/program impact of instructions
• Ensure contract terms are followed, manage claims and disputes
• Provide regular budget and spend updates to the finance team
• Oversee project stages from feasibility through handover with cost discipline
• Coordinate with external quantity surveyors and monitor tender outcomes

Key requirements

• Degree in quantity surveying or related discipline
• Client-side or developer experience in student housing, hotels or co-living preferred
• Proficiency with Excel and cost estimating tools
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail
• Strong communicator with contractors, suppliers and internal clients
• Resilient under pressure and deadline-driven
• Knowledge of industry standards, regulations and codes of practice
• Experience managing multiple schemes from inception to completion

• Analytical
• Clear communicator
• Relationship builder
• Excel
• cost estimating tools
• procurement and tendering

…