Sector Manager (Defence), NW England, centred in Barrow / Lake District

at  Morris Spottiswood

Morris & Spottiswood are a leading provider of fitout, refurbishment, M&E, facilities management and construction services in the UK. A family firm, with a proud track record of excellence, we aim high, act responsibly and value our staff and customers.
We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality projects that meet the critical needs of our clients. As we continue to expand, we are looking for a highly motivated and experienced Sector Manager to join our team.
The role will work across a number of live project sites, with a hybrid working model to suit individual and business needs. The role will support the Sector Lead in the operational and relationship oversight of relevant projects from the initial client engagement to completion. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the defence industry, excellent project management skills, and a proven ability to build and maintain client relationships. This role requires a strategic thinker who can ensure the successful delivery of projects while meeting the needs of our clients.
The ideal candidate will preferably have experience working in a similar role within the UK construction sector. Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control offers a distinct advantage.
If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for the defence sector and a track record of successful project management, we want to hear from you.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Proven experience in a similar role within the defence sector, with a strong understanding of industry-specific challenges and requirements, particularly around security vetting and controls.
• Demonstrated success in managing multiple projects from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of the local area, including the regional supply chain, client specific construction regulations, and market dynamics.
• Extensive experience in the construction industry, with a solid understanding of construction processes, materials, and methods.
• An awareness of contract law, construction contracts (e.g. NEC, JCT), and contractual negotiation strategies.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build lasting client relationships.
• Solid understanding of project management methodologies and tools.
• Experience in risk management and strategic planning.
• Knowledge of relevant regulations and compliance standards within the defence sector.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Successful candidates must pass client security vetting requirements.
  In return we offer an extremely attractive salary and car allowance along with additional benefits.

• Client Engagement: Support the Sector Lead to build and maintain strong relationships with key clients in the defence sector, understanding their needs and ensuring that our solutions meet their requirements.
• Project Oversight: Offer support to the delivery team to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards with compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Strategic Planning: Support the Sector Lead to develop and implement strategies to grow our presence in the defence sector, identifying new opportunities and areas for expansion.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks to project success and develop mitigation strategies to ensure smooth delivery.
• Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary point of contact between clients, the delivery team, and senior management, ensuring clear and effective communication throughout the project lifecycle and developing and maintaining robust and mutual Client / stakeholder relationships.
• Supply Chain Management: Support the Group Supply Chain Manager with the identification and development of local suppliers and vendors, whilst optimising procurement processes and ensuring timely delivery of materials and services.
• Resource Management: Liaising with the regional operations team, support the allocation of resources, ensuring that the delivery team is able to meet project demands.
• Performance Monitoring: Track project progress against key milestones, providing regular updates to clients and senior management, and making recommendations on adjustments as needed to stay on track.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement best practices to enhance project delivery and operational performance.