Residential Contracts Manager

This is a key role within our Planned Maintenance team, responsible for managing and overseeing contracts for major works and improvements to both occupied and vacant residential properties. These may include large‑scale refurbishment programmes, kitchens and bathrooms, professional services, ICT systems and other contracts critical to the effective delivery of Housing Services.

You will be responsible for ensuring contracts are delivered in line with statutory requirements, local procurement rules and best practice, along with:

Managing a portfolio of planned maintenance and improvement contracts, ensuring robust financial and operational control
Inspecting residential properties and providing professional advice to ensure compliance with statutory, health and safety and asset management requirements
Administering contracts from instruction to completion, including valuations, variations, defect management and final accounts
Monitoring contractor performance to ensure quality, customer satisfaction and value for money
Supporting tenant and leaseholder consultation and actively contributing to positive customer engagement
Ensuring full compliance with health and safety legislation, including CDM requirements
Maintaining accurate contract records using the Council’s electronic contract management system (MRI)
Providing technical advice and support to colleagues across Housing Services
Contributing to service improvement, sustainability objectives and the development of planned maintenance strategies

You will bring a strong technical background in residential maintenance and contract management, along with the confidence to manage complex stakeholder relationships so it is essential that you have:

HNC/HND in Building Studies or equivalent relevant experience
At least 3 years’ post‑qualification experience managing refurbishment and improvement contracts on occupied residential properties
Sound knowledge of public sector procurement and contract management
Detailed understanding of health and safety legislation, including CDM Regulations
Strong project management, organisational and communication skills
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a wider team
Full driving licence and ability to travel within the borough

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We offer a supportive, professional working environment where your expertise will make a real difference to residents’ homes and communities.

For an informal discussion about the role please contact Paul Ingram, Head of Housing Assets, on 01233 330428

When Applying - Please ensure that you have received confirmation of a submitted application once completed. For any assistance in completing the application form, please email recruitment@ashford.gov.uk

Hybrid Working - We are an organisation that puts people first and understands how important employee wellbeing is. We want to help you to balance your working life and home life and offer flexible ways of working to help structure your life in a positive and productive way; both at home and in the office. This maximises personal development and collaborative working. Competitive remuneration package - We offer an excellent salary linked pension scheme, generous annual leave with flexi time, free life insurance, supportive relocation package and opportunities for training and development.

With devolution news and talks evolving across the country for local authorities, we understand that there may be some uncertainty for those currently serving within the sector. Although Kent and Medway have not been included in the Devolution Priority Programme, discussions continue in this area. Kent, Medway and all District and Borough Councils in the South East will continue to work closely with each other to deliver vital services to our communities. This is an exciting, but stable time to join our organisation.

Ashford Borough Council recognises the need to ensure the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults when they come into contact with the services we provide

We welcome applications form the Armed Forces Community