Senior Contracts Advisor

THE TEAM At JSM Group, our Commercial & Contracts team plays a critical role in ensuring the successful delivery of infrastructure projects across the UK. As the business continues to grow, we're now looking for a Senior Contracts Lead with a strong commercial mindset and background in infrastructure, utilities, or construction. This is a key role that will help shape how we manage contractual risk, support strategic decision-making, and keep our projects on track. SCOPE OF ROLE Reporting to the Group Legal Director but embedded within our operational and commercial functions, you will act as a trusted advisor on contract and risk matters. You'll work closely with project teams, supply chain partners, and senior leadership to ensure that contracts are clearly understood, effectively managed, and aligned with business objectives. The role is based at our Potters Bar Head Office with hybrid working. HOW YOU'LL SUCCEED

• Leading on contract strategy and negotiations across high-value infrastructure and utility projects (typically £5M–£75M)
• Reviewing, advising on, and shaping commercial agreements, supplier terms, construction contracts, NDAs, and more
• Working proactively with internal teams to identify and manage contractual risk early
• Supporting project delivery teams with clear, commercially focused advice on contract interpretation and delivery obligations
• Managing the full contract lifecycle — from initial heads of terms to final closeout
• Collaborating with stakeholders across Commercial, Operations, and Finance to drive outcomes aligned with our business goals
• Acting as a sounding board for the business on live project issues, including dispute avoidance and early resolution strategies
• Translating legal language into clear, actionable advice for non-legal stakeholders
• Supporting the development and improvement of commercial contract processes and templates across the business WHAT IT TAKES Strong experience in contract and commercial management within infrastructure, utilities, or construction sectors (ideally Quantity Surveying) Experience in NEC/JCT/FiDIC Track record of negotiating and managing high-value, complex project contracts Comfortable identifying where commercial and contractual risk lies — and confident enough to challenge where needed Solutions-focused mindset with the ability to balance operational needs and risk management Able to communicate clearly and effectively with both commercial and non-commercial stakeholders Experience supporting dispute resolution, including negotiation and mediation This role would suit someone with a strong commercial background, e.g. an ex-Commercial Manager or someone senior in the Quantity Surveying field, who's looking to apply their expertise in a broader contracts and risk-focused role. WHAT WE OFFER YOU
• Competitive Salary
• Hybrid working
• 28 days holiday + bank holidays + 2 volunteering days
• Private Pension Scheme
• Health cash plan Equal Opportunity Statement