Overview

Title: Contract Administrator (NEC / JCT)

Department: Project Management

Location: London-based with regular travel to Midlands site

Project: Confidential Major Project subject to signed NDA

Reporting to: Associate / Partner

Role Overview

Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) has been appointed as a strategic delivery partner for a major UK development programme, currently operating under a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). The programme includes complex infrastructure and vertical development with significant interfaces across national transport and utility networks.

RLB’s commission spans two core functions:

• Programme-Wide PMO and Project Controls - RLB leads the overarching Programme Management Office (PMO), providing governance, assurance, and performance oversight across all packages. This includes:
• Programme controls and reporting
• Risk and change management
• Deployment of digital tools and IT solutions to support delivery
• Integrated Delivery Services - For each individual package, RLB provides a multi-disciplinary team delivering:
• Project Management
• Cost Management
• Procurement
• Design Management
• Health and Safety Advisory
• Contract Administration

RLB’s approach is underpinned by a turnkey programme delivery solution, combining technical leadership with digital innovation. This includes programme control tools, BIM-aligned information management, structured reporting frameworks, and robust change control processes.

Role: RLB are seeking a Contract Administrator to support the successful delivery of this project.

Role Responsibilities

• Responsible for the end-to-end contract administration, from set-up through to completion, across multiple packages and projects.
• Liaise with internal local and regional teams to identify appropriate companies for inclusion on bid lists / direct negotiations to provide services and carry out works in specific locations. When required, assist with the identification and expansion of supplier list to service the client’s pipeline of work.
• Responsible for contract communication between contractors and client, through Sypro. This will involve liaising closely with the client to seek necessary approvals within client systems, through fostering positive relationships and fully understanding all interfacing approvals.
• Liaising with staff on all levels of the company to analyse and determine a comprehensive contract strategy. Pre-Award and Post-Award Contract Administration, including but not limited to:
• Prepare and issue “Request for Proposal” packages and handle Bidders’ queries and correspondence. Evaluate proposals and coordinate with the relevant internal teams for input. Draft Award recommendations and submit to management for approval.
• Liaising between parties regarding contract development, and negotiations regarding terms and conditions, and drafting and revising changes as required, and
• Be the focal point of contact for contract related matters for all stakeholders including client, contractor, and internal teams.
• Manage the close-out of Deviations and Exceptions with the project team.
• Finalise the contract approval from various local and regional approvers.
• Monitor contract performance, assess potential risks, and propose mitigation strategies to ensure project success.
• Together with the project and commercial managers, resolve contract-related disputes, claims, and change orders in a timely and efficient manner.
• Foster strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and legal teams to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
• Develop and maintain digital system of contracts, records, and other documentation as part of a comprehensive claims prevention/avoidance strategy. Set up regular project team meetings to review, evaluate and close out claim notices.
• Advise and draft formal notices with input from project team and confirm with Project Manager
• Attend weekly change management meetings, provide initial review of entitlement of change orders and work with the commercial team to manage close out of provisional change orders within the required contractual period.
• Ensure correct use of contracts tools and forms.
• Perform closing activities as needed.
• Setup, chair, manage and attend Contracts Operations meeting and other project team meetings including change control, commercial for a specific region or project.
• Provide procurement support in drafting and processing change orders for suppliers and vendors.
• Arrange and coordinate the onboarding of suppliers and ensure the supplier screening process is completed.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Demonstrable experience administering NEC and / or JCT contracts
• Experience of working on large-scale infrastructure, roads and bridges, utilities, and venue and resort development projects would be beneficial / desirable.
• Proven experience in contract management within the construction industry.
• Strong knowledge of construction contracts, legal regulations, and industry best practices.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficient in contract management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.

Behaviours

• Recognised as a client focused, positive collaborator who shares knowledge freely and offers support to their peers and seniors. Recognised as a team player with a strong willingness to learn.
• Demonstrates a positive and proactive approach to the role, and will be committed to delivering customer service excellence, with good commercial results.

Employee Benefits

• Hybrid Working - Working patterns to support your work-life balance. As well as competitive maternity and paternity packages.
• Well-Rewarded - A competitive salary and generous holiday entitlement. As well as the opportunity to purchase up to five extra days.
• Focus On Wellbeing - We offer a number of health and wellness options, including gym membership and cycle to work schemes.
• Healthcare Packages - Private healthcare insurance and medical support, including dental insurance and eyecare vouchers.
• Personal Development - A continuous learning and development programme, including established APC and in-house mentoring schemes.
• Additional Benefits - We offer a wide range of benefits including a season ticket loan and professional membership subscriptions.
• Exceptional Exposure - You’ll have the opportunity to work on diverse projects across different sectors and regions.
• Social Responsibility - We hold team and social events as well as charity fundraising and volunteering activities.

If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact our recruitment team at: recruitment@uk.rlb.com