Commercial
From identifying new opportunities, to delivering the best service for our clients, our Commercial team is at the heart of what we do. It’s an interesting, varied, and rewarding career.
From identifying new opportunities, to delivering the best service for our clients, our Commercial team is at the heart of what we do. It’s an interesting, varied, and rewarding career.

You’ll find no better place to build your career
Business is booming at Wates, and we have the best reputation in the industry, bar none. Twenty years ago, we were worth £200m. Today, it’s £2.5bn. The Commercial team has played a vital role in enabling that success, as well as supporting our response to the Building Safety Act and journey toward Carbon Zero.
If you’d like to join our winning team, there are a huge range of opportunities available, from admin roles to commercial directors and everything in between. There is something for every stage of your career. Most importantly, once you’re here, we’ll support you at your pace, with individually tailored training based on your specific role.
At Wates, we aim to support our internal talent first, rather than recruit externally. This approach ensures our people get opportunities to develop and take the next step on the ladder.

Help your career thrive
Whether you’re an experienced commercial person, looking to change career, or returning to work after a break, get in touch. The Commercial team is a dynamic place to be at Wates especially as our sectors and the world are evolving rapidly.
You don’t need experience in the built environment. It’s more about having the right qualities. For commercial roles, things like integrity and fairness are crucial. We value commitment, curiosity and open-mindedness, and we encourage bringing forward good ideas. Numeracy and literacy are essential transferrable skills.
You’ll also need to be organised, methodical, and able to follow instructions. Since you’ll be dealing with lots of different people daily, excellent people skills, relationship management, stakeholder management and communication skills are vital. It truly is an exciting team to be part of and we welcome everyone from all backgrounds to come and join us.
Testimonials
Head of Procurement and Fleet
“Over the 20years (so far) working at Wates I have been able to experience a breadth of different projects and areas within the Commercial function and alongside other functions within the business. The variety of opportunities offered to me at various stages of my career has allowed me to develop a wide range of skills, knowledge and expertise that has really supported the growth and change throughout my path to date. Having supportive, trusted colleagues and leaders has been a massive part of my journey so far and I look forward to seeing what the next 20 or so years of adventure at Wates has to offer!”
Assistant Quantity Surveyor
Location: Liverpool
Job Type: Commercial
Application Deadline: 03-02-2026
Wates are looking for an Assistant Quantity Surveyor to join our Construction Team focussing on high profile, technically complex projects across multiple sectors.If you are passionate about the commercial aspects of Construction and are looking for an opportunity to challenge the norm, bring fresh new ideas and elevate yourself within the industry then join us and help to create tomorrow together.This is a great opportunity to progress your career as part of a talented, diverse, and supportive team.ABOUT THE ROLEOur Assistant Quantity Surveyors are a valuable part of our business, providing support to the Quantity Surveyors in the development and implementation of all pre and post contract strategies, commercial functions and contract reporting. Assistant Quantity Surveyors work collaboratively with our customers and industry specialists with a firm focus on added value, compliance, commercial viability, and best practice.As our Assistant Quantity Surveyor you will be involved in:· Procurement of materials, equipment and subcontract works – undertaking commercial assessment of quotes received and ensure the timely placement of orders to facilitate project delivery and ensure business objectives are met.· Commercial management of smaller sub-contract packages, ensuring all contractual processes are completed on time including measurement and valuation of sub-contract applications.· Complete agreed record keeping in relation to the project, whilst monitoring and handling payments in relation to plant, materials and labour.WHAT WE OFFER· Competitive salary & profit share scheme· Flexible working· Car Allowance / Company Car (subject to Role/Grade)· Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates)· Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more…· Excellent range of learning and development activity to support your career progression.· Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies, discuss career opportunities in strict confidence or need anything to make our recruitment process easier, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly or via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible.As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting
Project Surveyor
Location: Cambridge
Job Type: Commercial
Application Deadline: 13-02-2026
Wates have an opportunity for a Project Surveyor to join our WPS team within our WPS Housing Maintenance division. You will be working in the Cambridgeshire area on our social housing contracts. You will be expected to take accountability for the development and implementation of all pre and post contract strategies, commercial functions and contract reporting. Key Accountabilities will include: Develop and encourage project team performance encouraging and ensuring that Wates’ main contractual obligations and or strategies are executed and regularly reviewed Complete and submit monthly Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR) and progress reports Demonstrate understanding of internal and external tender strategies / build up Agree external valuations / cash flow to maximise project value Work with the Commercial Manager to agree and produce main and subcontract final accounts Ensure all Wates subcontract management / process obligations are complete with particular reference to Procurement, Measurement and valuation, Contractual instructions / notices / orders as well as Health and SafetyTo be successful in the role you will already have relevant commercial skills and experience including the ability to maximise value recovery, cost control and cash management as well as effectively use / understand financial reports and final accounts. Social housing retrofit experience is essential and SHDF is preferable but not a deal breaker.Alongside this you will be a confident communicator, able to demonstrate the ability to form and develop relationships with the client, Project Surveyors, design team and supply chain. You will also be committed to leading and developing commercial site teams.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting One of the Recruitment Team will be in contact to discuss the role in more detail and advise of the next step.
Project Manager
Location: Saffron Walden
Job Type: Commercial
Application Deadline: 27-03-2026
Project ManagerReporting to: Head of ProjectsLocation: CambridgeAbout the RoleWe are seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee the successful delivery of engineering and facilities projects from feasibility through to completion. You will play a key role in planning, coordinating, monitoring, and controlling projects to ensure they are delivered on time, within budget, and to agreed quality standards.This role requires strong leadership, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with internal teams, stakeholders, and clients while operating in line with Wates FM processes and governance.Key ResponsibilitiesAs Project Manager, you will be responsible for: Producing all project documentation from feasibility to completion in accordance with Wates FM processes and required formats Acting as a representative and support function within the Wates FM service Planning, monitoring, and controlling all aspects of assigned projects Coordinating project activities including setting deadlines, allocating responsibilities, and tracking progress Reporting project status, risks, and progress via regular status meetings and reports to the FM Board Maintaining and reviewing detailed project programmes, identifying resource requirements at an early stage Anticipating deviations from plans or schedules and proactively managing stakeholders Identifying business restrictions, drivers, and disruption factors Managing change control in collaboration with operational teams Identifying, analysing, and mitigating risks and issues, taking corrective action where required Defining acceptance criteria for deliverables and supporting stakeholder sign‑off Producing and maintaining accurate project documentation including schedules, reports, meeting minutes, and communication records Closing projects effectively, including end‑of‑project reporting, lessons learned, and sunset meetings Ensuring projects meet quality, compliance, and “fitness for purpose” standardsQualificationsEssential Project Management qualification (PRINCE2) IOSH membership or equivalentDesirable CAFM and reporting systems experience City & Guilds (Electrical / Electronic Craft Studies or Electrical Installation) or equivalent 18th Edition IEE Registration or Electrical Apprenticeship within building maintenance NVQ Level 2–3 (or equivalent) in Electrical or Mechanical disciplines ExperienceEssential Minimum of three years’ experience in a managerial Project Management role within a business‑critical environment Strong capability in planning, forecasting, and change management Proven experience producing clear project plans, reports, and risk management strategies Experience managing engineering projects end‑to‑end Ability to manage meetings effectively and maintain focus on objectives Experience working to strict timescales and document quality standardsDesirable Demonstratable experience within a critical business environment Practical knowledge of Microsoft Project and other Microsoft Office tools Experience operating and controlling business systems Knowledge of CAFM and reporting systems Experience supporting business transformation initiativesPersonal Skills & Attributes Confident, professional communicator with excellent written and verbal skills Client‑focused with a commitment to delivering high‑quality service Highly organised, detail‑oriented, and results‑focused Strong problem‑solving and risk assessment abilities Calm and adaptable under pressure Reliable, flexible, and able to prioritise effectivelyWhy Join Wates? Be part of a respected, industry‑leading facilities management provider Work on impactful projects within a structured and supportive environment Opportunities for professional development and career progressionGiven the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting
Project Manager
Location: Leeds
Job Type: Commercial
Application Deadline: 27-03-2026
Project ManagerReporting to: Head of ProjectsLocation: LeedsAbout the RoleWe are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the successful delivery of engineering and facilities projects for a key client based in Leeds. From feasibility through to completion, you will take full ownership of project planning, coordination, monitoring, and control — ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to agreed quality and compliance standards.This role requires a confident and proactive leader with excellent organisational skills, capable of working collaboratively with internal teams, suppliers, and clients while operating in line with our processes and governance.Key ResponsibilitiesAs Project Manager, you will be responsible for: Producing all project documentation from feasibility through to completion Acting as a representative, supporting stakeholder and client engagement Planning, monitoring, and controlling all aspects of assigned engineering and facilities projects Coordinating project activities, including setting deadlines, allocating responsibilities, and tracking progress Providing regular project updates, risk reporting, and progress reports through structured meetings and reports to the FM Board Maintaining and reviewing detailed project programmes, identifying resource requirements at an early stage Anticipating deviations from project plans or schedules and proactively managing stakeholders Identifying business restrictions, key drivers, and potential disruption factors Managing change control requirements in collaboration with operational teams Identifying, analysing, and mitigating risks and issues, taking corrective action where required Defining acceptance criteria for project deliverables and supporting stakeholder sign‑off Producing and maintaining accurate documentation, including schedules, reports, meeting minutes, and communication records Closing projects effectively, including end‑of‑project reporting, lessons learned, and sunset meetings Ensuring all projects meet quality, compliance, and “fitness for purpose” standardsQualificationsEssential Project Management qualification (PRINCE2) IOSH membership or equivalentDesirable Experience using CAFM and reporting systems City & Guilds (Electrical / Electronic Craft Studies or Electrical Installation) or equivalent 18th Edition IEE Registration or Electrical Apprenticeship within building maintenance NVQ Level 2–3 (or equivalent) in Electrical or Mechanical disciplinesExperienceEssential Minimum of three years’ experience in a Project Management role within a business‑critical environment Strong capability in project planning, forecasting, and change management Proven experience producing clear, structured project plans, reports, and risk management strategies Experience managing engineering or FM‑related projects end‑to‑end Ability to manage meetings effectively and keep discussions focused on objectives Experience working to strict timescales and documentation quality standardsDesirable Demonstrable experience within a critical or regulated environment Practical knowledge of Microsoft Project and Microsoft Office applications Experience operating and controlling business systems Knowledge of CAFM and performance reporting systems Experience supporting business transformation or improvement initiativesPersonal Skills & Attributes Confident and professional communicator with strong written and verbal skills Client‑focused with a commitment to delivering high‑quality service Highly organised, detail‑oriented, and results‑focused Strong problem‑solving and risk‑assessment abilities Calm, adaptable, and resilient under pressure Reliable, flexible, and able to prioritise workloads effectivelyGiven the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting