Commercial Lead

Commercial Director

Salary: Up to £100,000 + Profit-Related Bonus
Location: London-based (with flexibility)

About the Role:
Our client is a long-established and rapidly growing specialist subcontractor operating within the passive fire protection sector. With over 30 years of industry expertise, they are known for delivering innovative, compliant, and high-quality solutions across structural fire protection, firestopping and penetration sealing, slab edge and cavity barriers, acoustic seals, and fire doors. With a turnover of £25+ million, the business is scaling significantly and works on major projects across both public and private sectors, collaborating with some of the UK’s leading Tier 1 contractors.

Role Overview:
As Commercial Director, you will be responsible for leading a team of six experienced Commercial Managers and driving the commercial strategy across the project lifecycle—from contract negotiation through to final account settlement. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the commercial success of the business, with a strong focus on team leadership, operational delivery, and profitability.
Reporting directly to the Chief Commercial Officer, you will work collaboratively with operational leads and the wider leadership team to embed best practices and commercial governance, while also supporting the development and succession of emerging talent within the department.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Lead, support, and mentor a team of six Commercial Managers.
• Oversee accurate financial forecasting, reporting, and robust final account settlements.
• Work closely with senior leadership and operations teams to develop project strategies and manage risk.
• Promote succession planning and nurture the professional development of team members.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, acting as a senior point of contact with Tier 1 contractors.
• Ensure commercial compliance and governance across all contractual engagements.
• Represent the business in high-level negotiations and dispute resolution processes.
• Support the growth and scalability of the commercial function in line with company objectives.

Essential Requirements:

• Strong background as a Quantity Surveyor, with experience on both main contractor and subcontractor sides.
• Proven track record in leading and managing commercial teams.
• Excellent understanding of commercial processes, cost control, and contractual frameworks.
• High emotional intelligence, calm authority, and effective decision-making skills.
• Skilled communicator and relationship builder, with the ability to negotiate confidently.
• Passion for coaching and developing individuals and teams.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment.
• Experience working on high-value construction projects within a specialist subcontractor environment is desirable.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary up to £100,000
• Profit-related bonus scheme
• Clear progression opportunities within a scaling business
• Collaborative and supportive team culture
• Opportunity to shape commercial strategy and influence senior leadership

 
If you believe this role aligns with your experience and aspirations, please get in touch with Andreas: andreas.vella@peoplegroup.com, or send in your CV for consideration, and we will be in touch.