Senior Site Manager

We are seeking an experienced Senior Site Manager to lead the delivery of a large-scale, new-build student accommodation development in Southampton. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing day-to-day site operations, ensuring the project is delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This is a key leadership role requiring strong communication, commercial awareness, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

Site Leadership & Management

• Lead all daily site operations, ensuring the effective coordination of subcontractors, trades, and suppliers.
• Drive programme deliverables, sequencing, and logistics to maintain progress in line with the construction schedule.
• Monitor manpower levels, identify resource gaps, and proactively address issues affecting productivity.
• Conduct site inductions, toolbox talks, and regular briefings to maintain clear communication across the workforce.

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with company H&S policies, CDM regulations, and statutory requirements.
• Promote a strong safety culture, implementing corrective actions and behavioural safety initiatives.
• Carry out regular inspections, audits, RAMS reviews, and ensure all site activities are safely planned and executed.

Quality Management

• Oversee quality control processes, ensuring works meet design specifications and contractual requirements.
• Ensure all testing, inspections, sign-offs, and snagging procedures are completed to a high standard.
• Work closely with the design team to resolve technical queries and coordinate construction details.

Programme & Commercial Awareness

• Track progress against the master programme, identifying delays and implementing recovery strategies.
• Assist in managing site costs, material orders, waste reduction, and value-engineering opportunities.
• Support monthly reporting, progress updates, and coordination with the wider project team.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Develop positive working relationships with subcontractors, consultants, local authorities, and the client.
• Support community engagement activities and manage neighbourhood considerations around logistics and noise.
• Represent the site during inspections, client visits, and progress meetings.

Experience & Skills Required

• Proven track record as a Senior Site Manager or No.1 on Site on new-build projects, ideally including high-rise residential, PBSA, or PRS schemes.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to build effective teams and drive performance.
• Excellent knowledge of UK construction regulations, modern construction methods, and sequencing.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and programmes.
• Confident in IT tools such as MS Project, Asta, Viewpoint/Fieldview, or similar systems.

Qualifications

• SMSTS (essential)
• CSCS (Manager level)
• First Aid at Work
• Scaffold Awareness / Temporary Works Coordinator (advantageous)
• HNC/HND or degree in construction management (preferred but not essential)

Personal Attributes

• Proactive, decisive, and solution-focused.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail.
• Calm and confident under pressure.
• Commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.