Ward Williams

Construction Manager

  • Full-time
  • Whitebox
  • Exeter

Description:

Whitebox Construction Management was formed in 2021 with a distinctive vision, born out of a desire to redefine industry norms and elevate the standards of project execution. We recognised the need for a paradigm shift in the construction sector, and our foundation is rooted in a commitment to doing things differently. Embracing a collaborative approach, we believe that collective expertise yields superior results, fostering a culture of shared innovation and continuous improvement. 


As a B-Corp, sustainability is at the heart of our mission, as we acknowledge the profound impact construction has on the environment. By integrating sustainable practices into every facet of our operations, from design to execution, we aim to minimise our ecological footprint and contribute to a greener, more resilient future. 


Whitebox is dedicated to achieving service excellence by seamlessly integrating sustainable practices into our operations. We are committed to unlocking value for our clients and stakeholders through environmentally responsible practices. By prioritising sustainability, we aim to create lasting positive impacts on the environment, society, and our clients' bottom lines. 


We’re looking for people who share our commitment to building a better world through sustainable and responsible construction management. As part of the B-Corp community, we believe in the power of business to drive positive change, and we strive to lead by example in the construction industry. Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond compliance; it is ingrained in our values, practices, and every project we undertake.  


The Construction Manager is a member of the Whitebox Team, reporting directly to the Whitebox Construction Director. You will not have any line management responsibility initially, but you may be responsible for line management of the Assistant Construction Manager in the future. You will take the lead on construction projects and ensure they are well managed and compliant with regard to health, safety, and the environment and delivered efficiently and in line with time, cost and quality requirements. 


The location of the job will be site-based within the Somerset, Devon or Cornwall region, with a base office of Exeter. Travel to and from work in other offices may be required to fulfill the requirements of the role. Whitebox is committed to hybrid-working where the role allows so it may be possible for some periods of home working. 



Requirements:

  • Develop and implement project plans for the duration of the project. These will include, but are not limited to: 
  • Construction Phase Health and Safety Plan 
  • Procurement Plans  
  • Project Quality Plan 
  • Lead the project team and manage the supply chain to deliver projects to time, cost and quality targets and standards. 
  • Manage Trade Partners, including monitoring of contractor attendance and progress; providing direct instruction and support as necessary such that contractual arrangements are achieved.  
  • Motivate the site team and manage performance; monitor the competency of team members and undertake training/coaching as appropriate. 
  • Review risk assessments and method statements and put forward improvements as appropriate.  
  • Carry out inspections and reporting on safety, quality, progress, and the environment.  
  • Manage information and ensure trade partners have suitable information to undertake their duties.  
  • Review and report regularly on the program status and assist the planner to update or develop where required. 
  • Produce short-term programs and ensure trade contractors adhere to the requirements through monitoring and record keeping.  
  •  Undertake daily activity briefings (DABs) and weekly coordination meetings with all trade supervisors and attend pre-let / pre-start meetings at the direction of the commercial team.  
  • Produce and implement permits to work inc. Hotworks, permit to lift, permits to load etc, in accordance with the Whitebox procedures.  
  • Follow Whitebox procedures and relevant guidance in relation to the safe and efficient running of Construction Sites.  
  • Management of Temporary Works including giving approval for loading and striking in accordance with the design parameters.  
  • Advises the commercial team on costs and program impacts associated with changes.  
  • Be involved with the selection and procurement of trade partners.  
  • Complete daily site records and ensure others are also completing their records. This includes Daily Site Diary, Signing In / Out records, Trade Allocation Sheets, Specific works inspections.  
  • Participate with the management of internal and external design team partners/consultants to meet project deadlines.  
  • Proactively assist with the managing of customer relationships during delivery, including change and decision-making to effectively manage expectations. 
  • Promote best practice and innovation for all operations but particularly in relation to Health, Safety and the environment. 
  • Promote sustainable solutions to efficient management of waste, energy and water throughout the project. 
  • Develop solutions to site challenges and liaise with the relevant team members including the client and design team to overcome the issues and maintain project continuity.  
  • Keep track of changes and manage the information flow through the Technical Query (TQ), Change Control or Request for Information (RFI) systems. 
  • Ensure accidents or incidents are reported to the Construction Director as soon as practicable after they occur. Undertake First Aid and scene management to facilitate an investigation. Record any incident/scene through photographs.  
  • Attend and contribute to quarterly H&S Committee meetings. 
  • Contribute to the strategic development of the business and its parent company. 
  • Undertake such other activities as may be required to fulfil the requirements of the role. 


Qualifications, knowledge and experience:

  • Member of the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Association of Project Management (APM) or other relevant professional chartership/membership, or working towards membership.  
  • CSCS Card Holder 
  • Construction or Civil Engineering HNC / HND / Degree / NVQ 6 in Site Management – Other relevant academic qualifications may also be considered for the right candidate. 
  • Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) 
  • First Aid at Works (FAW) 
  • Temporary Works Coordinator: Site Safety Plus (TWC) 
  • Valid UK driving license.
  • CISRS Scaffold Inspection (Basic / Advanced) 
  • Proven experience managing construction projects as no. 1 based on site for projects up to a value of £15m.  
  • Experience of management of projects using the JCT form of Contract (JCT CMA / TC) desirable 


Skills and Abilities:

  • Passionate about doing the right thing in relation to people, places and the planet. 
  • Excellent working knowledge of relevant legislation. 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to compose and explain issues concisely to different audiences. 
  • Great interpersonal skills with the ability to guide, coach and educate staff and trade partners at all levels. 
  • Commitment to life long learning and continual professional development. 
  • Act as a role model for more junior members of staff and to all Trade Contractors and offer support and guidance as required. 
  • Experience of using planning software such as ASTA Powerproject or MS Project. 
  • Proficient in use of IT (Microsoft Office) and mobile aps.  


Benefits

We offer: 


  • A hub where the brightest minds come together to create solutions that redefine our industry. We're committed to fostering an environment where every team member can thrive 
  • Hybrid working (where role allows) 
  • A salary that values your skills and experience 
  • Training & development opportunities 
  • 38 days annual leave (including 8 public holidays) 
  • 6 annual Wellbeing days that can be taken for your personal wellbeing
  • Your birthday off 
  • Enhanced maternity/paternity leave 
  • 6% employer pension contributions 
  • 3 x salary Life Cover 
  • In-house wellbeing & financial support 
  • Charitable fundraising & dedicated volunteering days 
  • Involvement in professional & industry organisations 
  • Sports & socialising 


The position will require an element of travel to fulfil the requirements of the role, so having a full clean driving licence would be desirable.