The Vacancy
We’re VIVID! – We’re the fifth largest developer of new homes amongst housing associations in England, having built over 1,500 last year.
We’re seeking a dynamic and experienced Commercial Manager/ Senior Surveyor to join our expanding Land and New Business Team in Portsmouth. This is a full time, permanent role working 37 hours per week.
The Land and New Business Team leads the delivery of the new homes programme and is responsible for acquiring new opportunities and setting in place build contracts for the delivery of these projects. The role of Commercial Manager will primarily focus on supporting the delivery of a number of significant schemes already in the pipeline and will also provide commercial and surveying input into new acquisition opportunities.
Reporting to the Senior Regeneration Specialist, this is a new role within the Business and as such, is an opportunity for individuals to create and craft the role and to set out and define a pathway for the future.
Want to know what we can offer you?
1. 26 days holiday (plus bank holidays), with the opportunity to buy or sell annual leave
2. A productivity-related bonus scheme to enhance your take-home
3. A generous contributory pension of 6%. We’ll match employee contributions between 7% and 10%
4. Life assurance paid at x 3 annual salary
5. Private medical insurance
6. Health care cash plan called Medicash
7. Enhanced pay for maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave
8. Access to counselling, legal and financial information
9. Electric car scheme
10. Huge variety of in-house & e-learning courses and a range of coaching and mentoring programmes
Here’s the facts about the role:
The Commercial Manager will be responsible for overseeing commercial aspects of these residential developments, ensuring financial viability, buildability, and maximizing value for money for VIVID. Ideally, you will have worked within the new homes residential sector and involved in the delivery of developments, as a surveyor or commercial manager and will need to display an understanding of current build costs, cost planning and cashflow management, build estimates and build contracts.
You’ll need to demonstrate an understanding and proficiency with financial models and appraisal systems within the Development arena. A knowledge of Registered Provider operations would be preferable but not essential.
Responsibilities include:
11. Financial Management: Oversee project budgets, cost control, and financial reporting on all current live projects. Ensure projects are delivered within budget and on time. Provide and Manage reporting on Value for Money
12. Contract Management: Working with Employers Agents work jointly to procure Contractors for the New Build programme, establishing appropriate contracts, appointment compliance with new and future legislation. Work with EA’s to cost manage live projects and report on contract progress and costs.
13. Risk Management: Identify and mitigate commercial risks associated with projects. Develop strategies to minimize financial exposure. Identify opportunities for costs savings but also review how best to integrate new Business strategies such as Future Homes into developments.
14. Tendering and Procurement: Manage the tendering process in collaboration with others, including preparing tender documents, evaluating bids, and negotiating contracts with Main Contractors.
15. Contract Administration: Work with EA’s to oversee the administration of contracts, including preparing and issuing contract documents, managing variations, and resolving disputes. Where relevant, appoint consultants, manage costs and invoices.
16. Valuations and Payments: Sign off on behalf of Vivid interim valuations and final accounts. Ensure timely and accurate payments to contractors and consultants.
17. Procurement : Work with internal colleagues to assist in procuring new build suppliers and new products to enable the delivery of Business Case requirements
18. Project Planning: Collaborate with project managers and other stakeholders to develop project plans and schedules. Monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.
19. Stakeholder Management: Maintain strong relationships with Contractors, suppliers, and internal teams. Ensure clear communication and effective collaboration.
20. Reporting: Prepare regular reports on project performance, financial status, and commercial activities. Present findings to senior management.
21. Compliance: Ensure all commercial activities comply with relevant regulations, standards, and company policies.
22. Health and Safety: The candidate will be required to manage and engage with Principal Designers (CDM) and (BSA), be actively managing the requirements for High-Risk Buildings and ensure that the Company provides processes to enable handover for customer, Sales and to Accountable persons.
Qualifications & experience
23. Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Construction Management, or a related field.
24. RICs certified would be beneficial but is not essential
25. Proven experience as a Commercial Manager or Senior Surveyor, preferably within the housing or social housing sector.
26. Strong financial acumen and analytical skills.
27. Excellent negotiation and contract management abilities.
28. Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
29. Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
30. Proficiency in relevant software and tools (e.g., MS Office, project management software, Proval, Argus, Sequel).
A driving licence with a car available for business use is essential.