Electrical Distribution Contract Manager (230V–33kV)

Job Title: Electrical Distribution Contract Manager (230V–33kV)
Salary: Competitive and dependent on experience
Location: UK (flexible / regionally based)
Contract: Permanent / Full Time
Sector: Power Distribution, Utilities and Infrastructure

About IES

IES Utilities Group is a leading UK utility provider delivering end-to-end multi-discipline solutions. Our teams operate across Power, Gas, Water, Telecoms, District Heating and Renewables, providing survey, design, construction and maintenance services nationwide. With a commitment to innovation, safety and sustainability, IES supports clients in building and maintaining resilient, future-ready infrastructure networks across the UK.

About the Role

Due to continued growth within our Power Division, we are seeking an experienced Electrical Distribution Contract Manager to oversee the delivery and commercial management of distribution network contracts across the UK.

The Contract Manager will take overall responsibility for the operational, commercial and contractual performance of multiple projects and framework agreements spanning LV and HV electrical infrastructure (230V–33kV). Working closely with clients, operational teams, commercial departments and senior leadership, you will ensure that contracts are delivered safely, profitably and in line with client expectations.

This role will involve managing programmes covering Overhead Line (OHL) and Underground (UG) cable construction, maintenance, refurbishment, asset replacement, network reinforcement and new connections for major DNO and utility clients, including SPEN, SSEN, UKPN and NGED.

Key Responsibilities

Contract and Operational Management

• Take full responsibility for the successful delivery of multiple electrical distribution contracts and framework agreements.
• Provide strategic oversight across all project activities, ensuring contractual obligations are achieved.
• Lead operational teams to deliver works safely, efficiently and to the highest quality standards.
• Ensure project programmes are effectively managed and aligned with client requirements and outage schedules.
• Monitor contract performance against key deliverables, KPIs and service level agreements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase operational efficiency and client satisfaction.

Commercial and Financial Management

• Hold accountability for the financial performance and profitability of allocated contracts.
• Manage contract budgets, forecasts, cost reporting and monthly financial reviews.
• Oversee NEC3/NEC4 contract administration, including Early Warning Notices (EWNs), Compensation Events (CEs) and change management processes.
• Work closely with commercial teams to maximise revenue recovery and margin performance.
• Manage subcontractor procurement, performance reviews and contractual compliance.
• Identify commercial risks and implement mitigation strategies to protect business objectives.

Health, Safety, Environmental & Quality

• Champion an industry-leading safety culture across all operational activities.
• Ensure compliance with CDM Regulations, ESQCR, DNO standards and company management systems.
• Monitor HSEQ performance through audits, inspections and management reviews.
• Support the approval and implementation of RAMS and safe systems of work.
• Lead investigations into incidents, non-conformances and client complaints, ensuring lessons learned are embedded across the business.
• Promote environmental and sustainability objectives throughout contract delivery.

Stakeholder & Client Management

• Serve as the primary senior contact for clients and key stakeholders.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with DNO representatives, consultants and framework partners.
• Lead regular client meetings, performance reviews and progress reporting.
• Manage escalated issues and ensure timely resolution of contractual, operational and customer concerns.
• Identify opportunities for contract growth, extensions and additional service offerings.

Resource and Team Leadership

• Lead, motivate and develop Project Managers, Site Managers, Supervisors and support teams.
• Ensure effective workforce planning and resource allocation across contracts.
• Support recruitment, succession planning and employee development initiatives.
• Foster a high-performance culture focused on safety, accountability and client service.
• Collaborate with senior leadership on strategic business objectives and operational improvements.

Experience and Qualifications

Industry Experience

• Experience within the UK power distribution, utilities or infrastructure sector.
• Proven experience managing electrical distribution contracts, frameworks or multi-project portfolios.
• Strong background delivering LV and HV electrical infrastructure projects up to 33kV.
• Experience working with DNOs, IDNOs, ICPs or principal contractors operating within the power sector.

Technical Knowledge

• Good understanding of OHL and UG electrical distribution construction methodologies.
• Knowledge of DNO specifications, engineering standards and network operations.
• Understanding of CDM Regulations, ESQCR and utility industry compliance requirements.

Commercial Awareness

• Strong understanding of NEC3 and NEC4 contract forms.
• Demonstrable experience managing contract profitability, commercial risk and client relationships.
• Experience overseeing change control, compensation events, variations and claims processes.
• Strong financial management and forecasting capability.

Qualifications

• HNC/HND or Degree in Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying or a related discipline.
• SMSTS.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Professional project or contract management qualification (APM, PRINCE2 or equivalent).

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and remuneration package.
• Long-term and stable work.
• Opportunity to support critical infrastructure projects.
• Supportive team environment committed to high safety and quality standards, alongside a self-delivery resourcing strategy.
• Career development opportunities within a growing energy services company.