Senior Irrigation Systems Contracts Manager

Senior Irrigation Systems Contracts Manager

The Senior Irrigation Systems Contracts Manager is responsible for the successful delivery of golf course, sports turf, commercial landscaping, and public realm irrigation projects across the UK.

The role combines project tendering, contract management, project delivery, commercial oversight, and technical leadership to ensure irrigation installations are completed safely, profitably, and to the highest industry standards.

The postholder will oversee multiple contracts simultaneously, managing project teams, subcontractors, suppliers, and client relationships while ensuring compliance with UK legislation, health and safety requirements, and contractual obligations.

The individual will at times be required to be flexible and carry out duties to assist in other areas of the MJ Abbott Group business.

Reports to: Contracts Director

Key Responsibilities

Contract & Commercial Management

• Manage irrigation contracts from tendering through to practical completion and final account agreement.
• Review and administer contracts, specifications, drawings, and client requirements.
• Manage contract variations, compensation events, extensions of time, and commercial claims.
• Monitor project budgets, cash flow, profitability, and cost control measures.
• Produce financial forecasts and monthly contract performance reports.
• Negotiate and manage subcontractor agreements and supplier contracts.
• Ensure compliance with contractual obligations and company procedures.

Project Delivery

• Lead the planning, programming, and execution of irrigation installation and refurbishment projects.
• Develop project programmes and resource plans to achieve delivery targets.
• Coordinate labour, materials, specialist subcontractors, and plant requirements.
• Monitor project progress and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Conduct regular site visits to ensure quality, safety, and programme compliance.
• Oversee project commissioning, testing, and client handover processes.

Technical Leadership

• Provide technical expertise in irrigation design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance.
• Review irrigation layouts, hydraulic calculations, pump station designs, filtration systems, and control technologies.
• Support project teams with technical problem-solving and value engineering solutions.
• Promote sustainable water management and efficient irrigation practices.
• Maintain awareness of developments in irrigation technology, smart controls, and water conservation systems.

Client Relationship Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for key clients.
• Develop strong relationships with:
• Course Managers and Head Greenkeepers
• Sports Turf Managers
• Landscape Architects
• Main Contractors
• Local Authorities
• Commercial Developers
• Attend project meetings, site progress reviews, and client presentations.
• Identify opportunities for repeat business and contract growth.

Health, Safety, Environmental & Quality (HSEQ)

• Liaise with Health & Safety manager to ensure compliance with:
• Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
• CDM Regulations 2015
• Environmental legislation and water regulations
• Company HSEQ policies
• Prepare and review RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements).
• Conduct site inspections and audits.
• Promote a strong safety culture throughout project delivery.
• Ensure all project documentation is maintained and compliant.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and mentor Project Managers, Site Supervisors, Irrigation Technicians, and Engineers.
• Manage workforce planning and resource allocation.
• Conduct performance reviews and support employee development.
• Promote collaboration and continuous improvement across project teams.

Qualifications & Experience

Experience

• Minimum 10 years' experience within irrigation, landscaping, sports turf, golf course construction, or related sectors.
• Minimum 5 years' experience managing contracts and projects at a senior level.
• Strong understanding of JCT contracts.
• Experience managing subcontractors and multi-disciplinary project teams.

Technical Knowledge

• Pump stations and water storage systems
• Irrigation control systems and central control software
• Hydraulic principles and water management
• CAD drawings and irrigation design interpretation
• Utility coordination and groundworks operations

Desirable Qualifications

• SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme).
• First Aid at Work.
• IOSH Managing Safely or NEBOSH qualification.
• Contract negotiation and administration
• Leadership and people management
• Strategic planning
• Client relationship management
• Technical problem solving
• Communication and stakeholder engagement
• Budget control and financial management

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Projects delivered safely and on programme
• Gross margin and profitability targets achieved
• Client satisfaction and retention rates
• Successful management of contract variations
• Health and safety performance
• Quality assurance and defect free handovers
• Team development and retention
• Growth of repeat business opportunities

This role is ideally suited to an experienced Contracts Manager, Senior Project Manager, Golf Course Construction Manager, or Irrigation Specialist seeking a leadership position within the UK golf, sports turf, and landscaping irrigation sector.

MJ Abbott Limited is an equal opportunities employer.