Port Development Cost & Contracts Manager

Location: Birkenhead
Salary: £65,000 - £73,000 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent

Introduction
At Stena Line, we're investing £500 million in our ports and infrastructure across the UK and Ireland, creating one of the most ambitious development programmes in our history.

As we continue to modernise and future-proof our port network, we're looking for an ambitious Cost & Contracts Manager to help shape the commercial success of major infrastructure projects that will support our customers, communities and operations for decades to come.

This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially minded professional to take ownership of significant contracts, influence major investment decisions and play a key role in the delivery of high-profile marine, port and infrastructure developments. You'll work alongside experienced project teams, industry specialists and business leaders, helping transform ideas into real-world projects that leave a lasting legacy.

Whether you're currently a Quantity Surveyor, Commercial Manager, Cost Manager or Contracts Manager looking for your next challenge, this role offers the opportunity to grow your career within a business that is investing heavily in its future and committed to developing the next generation of infrastructure leaders.

If you're motivated by solving complex challenges, delivering value and making a visible impact, we'd love to hear from you.

What you'll be doing
As Cost & Contracts Manager, you'll play a vital role in the commercial management of our capital investment portfolio, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, responsibly and with strong commercial governance.

You'll be responsible for:
- Managing project costs from feasibility and business case development through to final account.
- Preparing and maintaining project budgets, forecasts and commercial reports.
- Administering and managing NEC and other construction contracts.
- Supporting procurement activities, tender evaluations and contract award processes.
- Identifying and managing commercial risks, opportunities and cost-saving initiatives.
- Assessing contractor applications, variations, compensation events and change control processes.
- Working closely with Project Managers, consultants and contractors to maximise value and project performance.
- Providing commercial advice and insight to senior management throughout the project lifecycle.
- Contributing to continuous improvement and helping shape best practice across our growing investment programme.

Why join Stena Line?
At Stena Line, we're not just investing in infrastructure—we're investing in the future.

You'll have the opportunity to work on projects that genuinely matter, helping modernise critical transport infrastructure while supporting more sustainable and efficient operations across our network.

You'll join a collaborative and forward-thinking environment where fresh ideas are encouraged, innovation is embraced and your contribution can have a real and lasting impact.

In return, you'll enjoy:
- The opportunity to influence and support a £500 million infrastructure investment programme.
- Exposure to a diverse portfolio of marine, port and capital development projects.
- The chance to work alongside experienced professionals and industry specialists.
- A collaborative culture that values initiative, ownership and continuous learning.
- Excellent career development opportunities within a growing business.
- A competitive salary and benefits package.
- The opportunity to build a long-term career delivering projects that will shape our ports for future generations.

About you
We're looking for someone who combines strong commercial awareness with a proactive mindset and a desire to make a difference.

You'll enjoy building relationships, influencing stakeholders and working in a dynamic project environment where no two days are the same.

You'll likely bring:
- Experience in cost management and contract administration.
- Knowledge of NEC contracts or similar forms of construction contract.
- Strong analytical, commercial and negotiation skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- A degree, HNC/HND, or equivalent qualification in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or a related discipline.
- The ability to identify risks, challenge assumptions and provide commercially sound solutions.
- A desire to grow, develop and take ownership within a major infrastructure investment programme.

Most importantly, you'll be excited by the opportunity to help deliver projects that will support communities, strengthen key transport links and contribute to the future success of Stena Line.

Interested?
This is a permanent position within our Ports & Terminals team, based in Birkenhead with regular travel to operational ports and project sites across the UK and Ireland.

To apply, please register your profile and submit your application through our online recruitment system by Monday 27^th July 2026.

For recruitment-related questions, please contact Phil Howarth, Talent Acquisition Co-ordinator at [email protected]

For data security reasons, applications can only be accepted through our online recruitment system.

About Stena Line
Stena Line is one of Europe's leading ferry operators, connecting people, businesses and communities through one of the continent's most extensive route networks.

With over 5,900 colleagues across Scandinavia, the UK and the Baltics, we're committed to creating sustainable transport solutions that keep society moving while supporting the transition to a more sustainable future.

We believe our success comes from our people. That's why we're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued and able to thrive. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates and celebrate the diversity, perspectives and experiences that make us stronger.