Projects / Contracts Manager

Projects / Contracts Manager - Interior Fit-Out & Finishes Location: East London, Eastern Cape Employment Type: Permanent About the Role Our client is urgently seeking an experienced, results-driven Projects / Contracts Manager with strong technical and commercial expertise in drywall, ceilings, partitioning and interior finishing works. The successful candidate will take full responsibility for managing construction and interior fit-out projects from tender stage through to completion and handover, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget and to the required quality standards. This is a hands-on role requiring practical construction knowledge, strong commercial awareness and the ability to manage multiple trades, subcontractors and site operations effectively. Key Responsibilities Manage projects from tendering, procurement and construction through to final completion and handover. Interpret construction drawings, specifications and scopes of work to determine project requirements. Prepare accurate material and labour take-offs, Bills of Quantities (BOQs), quotations and cost estimates. Review subcontractor quotations, negotiate pricing and ensure commercial competitiveness. Coordinate and oversee drywall, ceilings, partitioning, shopfitting and associated finishing trades. Manage subcontractors, suppliers and site teams to ensure efficient project execution. Monitor project budgets, expenditure, timelines, productivity and quality standards. Identify and manage variations, additional works, cost overruns and contractual risks. Coordinate procurement and ensure timely delivery of materials in accordance with project programmes. Conduct regular site inspections, monitor progress and resolve technical or operational challenges. Liaise with clients, architects, consultants, subcontractors and other project stakeholders. Ensure compliance with project specifications, contractual requirements and relevant health and safety standards. Maintain accurate project documentation, progress reports and cost forecasts. Oversee snagging, quality inspections and successful project handovers. Key Skills & Competencies Construction Project Management Drywall, Ceilings & Partitioning Interior Fit-Out & Finishing Trades Quantity Take-Offs & BOQ Preparation Cost Estimating & Budget Control Subcontractor & Supplier Management Construction Drawing Interpretation Contract Administration & Variations Project Planning & Scheduling Problem-Solving & Decision-Making Ideal Candidate Our client is looking for a commercially astute, technically competent and hands-on professional who takes ownership of project delivery. This is not a purely administrative project management role. The successful candidate must have extensive practical construction experience and the confidence to manage site operations, interpret technical drawings, assess quantities, control costs and coordinate finishing trades. The ideal individual will be proactive, organised and capable of identifying challenges, implementing practical solutions and delivering high-quality projects within demanding deadlines. Requirements Requirements Proven experience as a Projects / Contracts Manager within construction or interior fit-out projects. Hands-on experience in drywall, ceilings and partitioning is essential. Knowledge of shopfitting, bulkheads, flooring, painting and commercial finishing trades. Ability to interpret construction drawings and independently prepare accurate quantity take-offs and BOQs. Strong experience in estimating, budgeting, procurement and cost control. Proven ability to manage subcontractors, suppliers, site teams and project timelines. Experience in commercial, retail, office or tenant installation projects advantageous. Relevant qualification in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying or a related field advantageous. Strong communication, negotiation, problem-solving and organisational skills.