Project / Contracts Manager for Interior Fit-Out in East London
The Focus Group · East London, Eastern Cape
Overview
The Focus Group in East London is hiring a hands-on Project / Contracts Manager to oversee drywall, ceilings, partitioning and interior finishing projects from tender to handover. This is a practical, site-based role for someone with real construction experience who can manage subcontractors, control budgets and drive projects to completion. If you thrive on solving site problems and delivering quality work on time, this could be a great fit.
About the role
The Focus Group is looking for an experienced and results-driven Project / Contracts Manager to join their team in East London. You will take full responsibility for managing interior fit-out and finishing projects, particularly drywall, ceilings and partitioning, from tender stage through to successful completion.
This is a hands-on role, not an administrative one. You will be expected to walk onto site, understand what is needed, identify problems and ensure work gets done correctly and on time.
- Manage projects from tender, procurement and construction through to handover
- Prepare and review take-offs, BOQs, quotations and pricing
- Coordinate drywall, ceilings, partitioning and other finishing trades
- Manage subcontractors, suppliers and site teams
- Monitor costs, programmes, quality and productivity
- Conduct site inspections and resolve construction issues
- Liaise with clients, consultants, architects and internal teams
- Ensure effective snagging and project handover
Requirements
- Substantial hands-on experience in construction and interior finishing, including drywall systems, ceilings, partitioning, bulkheads and feature ceilings, shopfitting and interior fit-out, painting and finishing trades, and flooring
- Experience in commercial construction, tenant installations, retail, warehouses or office projects is advantageous
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications
- Complete accurate take-offs independently
- Understand quantities, dimensions and material requirements
- Develop and interrogate BOQs and scopes of work
- Assess subcontractor quotations and negotiate with suppliers and subcontractors
- Understand construction methodologies and sequencing
- Manage multiple subcontractors and trades
- Identify potential cost overruns and programme delays
- Communicate effectively with clients, consultants and site teams
- Work under pressure and meet demanding project deadlines
- A relevant qualification in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Building, Project Management or a related field will be advantageous
- Proven project delivery capability will also be considered
Responsibilities
- Manage projects from tender, procurement and construction through to completion and handover
- Prepare and review accurate material and labour take-offs from drawings and specifications
- Analyse drawings, specifications and scopes of work to identify project requirements
- Prepare and review BOQs, quotations and pricing
- Manage subcontractors, suppliers and site teams
- Monitor project costs, programmes, quality and productivity
- Ensure projects are delivered within approved budgets and timeframes
- Coordinate drywall, ceilings, partitioning and other finishing trades
- Review subcontractor pricing and ensure quotations are accurate and commercially competitive
- Identify variations, additional works and potential commercial risks
- Manage contractual obligations and ensure proper project documentation
- Coordinate with clients, consultants, architects, subcontractors and internal teams
- Monitor procurement and ensure materials are ordered and delivered in accordance with the programme
- Conduct regular site inspections and resolve construction issues
- Ensure workmanship meets the required quality, specification and project standards
- Assist with project planning, forecasting and cost control
- Drive projects to completion and ensure effective snagging and handover
Job details
- Organisation
- The Focus Group
- Location
- East London, Eastern Cape
- Job type
- Full time
- Experience level
- Mid
- Category
- Construction & Engineering
- Application Method
- Apply online
Success Guide
Hi there! If you are eyeing this Project / Contracts Manager role with The Focus Group in East London, here is some friendly advice. This is a hands-on construction job, so when you apply, make sure your CV clearly shows your experience with drywall, ceilings, partitioning and interior fit-out. Highlight any projects you managed from start to finish, especially if you handled take-offs, BOQs and subcontractors. In an interview, expect questions about how you solve site problems, manage budgets and deal with tight deadlines. Be ready to talk about specific projects you have worked on and what you delivered. Since the role is site-based, emphasise that you are comfortable being on site and getting your hands dirty. Good luck!
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