RELATED SERVICES
Construction
Passionate about building a better tomorrow for everybody.
As a family business operating for more than 125 years, our experience is unrivalled, whether it’s building homes, workplaces, schools, hospitals or sports centres. We work as a major contractor across the UK with both public and private sector customers, to create buildings with real impact. We also provide fit out services to customers across the UK, improving our customers’ buildings, boosting their value and making them better spaces to be in. As with everything we do, our work is always of the highest standard.
average project value (2023)
working hours saved using modern methods of construction
projects under construction
Working in both public and private sectors
Our approach

Offsite Manufacturing
Using offsite manufacturing and modern methods of construction we can improve quality, productivity and efficiency.


Social value
Social value is all about making a positive change in our communities, something we've been committed to from the start.


Building Technology
We transform environments using technology, innovation and next level engineering to drive efficiency and sustainability.


Adapt Zero
Our innovative ‘Adapt Zero’ model of school construction is changing the way we build schools.


Major Projects
The newly established Major Projects Division stands as a testament to our commitment to ‘Empowering Tomorrow’

Supporting society
We take our role in society very seriously and strive to help enrich the communities we work in, by generating social value across all our activities.
This includes programmes such as educating young people about careers in the built environment, or mentoring small businesses and entrepreneurs as well as contributing to local charities and good causes.
Optimised construction
Construction isn’t just about the materials we use, it’s also about exploiting modern techniques to give our customers the best experience.
Using optimised construction, we can improve efficiency, provide better value for money and save you time. More importantly this approach helps to create a safer working environment for everyone.
Sustainable supply chains
Having sustainable supply chains is more important than ever. We are not just committed to our own sustainability journey but also to helping our suppliers meet their own environmental targets.
We are focused on reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions from the materials we use such as concrete and steel. We also work closely with our suppliers to adopt low and zero carbon alternatives to the products we use.
From commercial to retail, hospitality to healthcare, our projects speak for themselves.

Sandwell Aquatics Centre, Smethwick
Delivering a world class sporting venue and a community legacy. Sandwell Aquatics Centre has been built to host one of the largest international sporting events of 2022.
Sport and Leisure
Marks & Spencer stores fit out
We have been working for Marks & Spencer (M&S) for over 20 years, delivering over 1,000 store refurbishment and fit out projects across the M&S full range of stores, including clothing & home and foodhalls.
Retail and the high street
Life and Mind Building – University of Oxford
The Life & Mind building will be the ‘largest building project ever undertaken’ by the University of Oxford.
Science and Technology
11 and 12 Wellington Place, Leeds
The intention for 11 & 12 Wellington Place was to create two landmark buildings in the heart of Leeds City Centre.
Commercial
Imperial College London
We recently transformed the Sir Michael Uren building at Imperial College London (ICL) over an 11-week programme.
EducationKey contacts

Bradley Ashcroft
Business Development South (SE / SW)

Nicola George
Business Development South (Oxford / Cambridge)

Steve Yates
Business Development (London)

Freddie Whitehead
Business Development (North East and Yorkshire)

Kate Wyatt
Business Development (Healthcare)

Ekaterina Sidyakova
Fit out and Refurbishment
CAREERS IN CONSTRUCTION AT WATES
Want to be part of our team?

Design Manager
Location: Wokingham
Job Type: Design
Application Deadline: 15-04-2025
Wates are looking for a Design Manager to join our Residential team in our Southern region and to support the design function for our Wokingham site delivering new affordable homes to the local community.If you are passionate about design, working within a team environment and with proven technical skills 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 Design Managers are a valuable part of our business, driving quality outcomes, enhancing buildability and fostering innovation. Design Managers work collaboratively with our customers and industry specialists to ensure that the design develops in accordance with the brief with a firm focus on added value, compliance, commercial viability, and best practice.As our Design Manager, you will be responsible for: Work with all relevant parties, to produce and manage a realistic design programme and information required schedule to facilitate design, procurement and construction activities. Collaborating with a Senior Design Manager and wider technical team to ensure smooth coordination across all disciplines. Support the implementation of continuous improvement initiatives and innovation. Ensure the design has been reviewed and verified and that it is coordinated, compliant and complete, whilst mitigating Health and Safety risks, design and buildability issues prior to construction. Working with internal and external stakeholders, consultants, and subcontractors to drive quality outcomes and innovative solutions at each stage of the design and delivery process.WHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car 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… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) 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/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
Planner
Location: Middlesbrough
Job Type: Planning
Application Deadline: 14-04-2025
At Wates, we believe great projects start with great planning.We’re looking for a Planner to join our Construction Team in the North East, playing a key role in delivering high-profile, technically complex projects across multiple sectors.If you're passionate about construction, thrive on innovation, and love pushing boundaries, this is your chance to step up, stand out, and make an impact. Bring your expertise, fresh ideas, and ambition—we’ll give you the platform to elevate your career.WHAT YOU’LL DO:As a Planner, you’ll be at the heart of our projects, driving quality, efficiency, and innovation from start to finish.Your role will include:✔️ Creating and managing target programmes to keep projects on track✔️ Analysing schedules and quotes to ensure precision in planning✔️ Leading Supply Chain programme production and coordination✔️ Tracking project success through KPIs, milestone management, and trend analysisWHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car * Travel covered to any of our sites* Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.(*Subject to role…….)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 or to discuss career opportunities in strict confidence, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly 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 #PLN
Administrator (Health and Safety)
Location: Newmarket
Job Type: Clerical & Administration
Application Deadline: 04-04-2025
Join Us as a site based Administrator on a High-Profile, Groundbreaking ProjectAre you ready to make an impact and elevate your career in the construction industry? Wates are on the hunt for a proactive and passionate Administrator to join our renowned Major Projects Team. Based on site within Northern Home Counties, you’ll be part of a team that delivers some of the region’s most technically complex and innovative projects, shaping the world of tomorrow.Why Choose Wates?At Wates, we’re not just building projects; we’re building futures. Our teams thrive on challenging the status quo, pushing boundaries, and driving excellence. If you’re excited by the prospect of supporting cutting-edge construction projects, bringing fresh ideas to the table, and growing with one of the most forward-thinking companies in the industry, this is the role for you.Your Role as an Administrator:As a pivotal member of our team, you’ll play a key role in ensuring the smooth running of our project sites. Your work will empower our engineers and construction teams to deliver at their best. From coordinating day-to-day site activities to maintaining top-tier compliance, you’ll be at the heart of the action.In this role, you will:✅ Be the Backbone of the Team: Provide essential support to project and site-based teams, keeping everything running like clockwork.✅ Drive Operational Excellence: Oversee all administrative activities to ensure the seamless execution of project works.✅ Ensure Quality & Compliance: Take charge of auditing, maintaining, and training to uphold company standards across all sites.✅ Champion Health & Safety: Support the team in achieving or surpassing Health and Safety benchmarks.What Makes This Role Unique?This isn’t just another admin role—it’s your chance to be part of a high-performing team that’s redefining what’s possible in construction. Your work will directly contribute to the success of landmark projects, giving you a front-row seat to see your efforts transform communities.What's in it for you? Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car * Travel covered to any of our sites* Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity. (*Subject to role…….) Ready to Build Your Future?If you’re ambitious, adaptable, and eager to leave your mark in the construction industry, Wates is the place for you. Let’s create tomorrow togetherTo 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 or to discuss career opportunities in strict confidence, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly 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 Baseline Personnel Security Standard Check (BPSS) as well as Enhanced Level 1 for entry to a live prison which will be done 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
Social Value Manager
Location: London NW1
Job Type: SHEQ
Application Deadline: 31-03-2025
Wates are looking for a Social Value Manager to join our London Construction team focussing on high profile, technically complex projects across multiple sectors.If you are passionate about social value with proven technical skills 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 Social Value Managers are a valuable part of our business and have the responsibility to manage the delivery of Social Value activity for each allocated site/contract within the region. Ensuring project specific social value plans are in place for delivery on each site/contract and in line with the Wates Social Value Strategy & client requirements, enhancing the brand for our customers and leaving a lasting legacy.AS OUR SOCIAL VALUE MANAGER YOU WILL: Be responsible for the delivery of SV KPIs and section 106 requirements in line with the social value plan. Raise any concerns regarding failure to achieve targets within the allotted timescales to the RSVM. Day to day supervision of the regional Social Value Advisors (SVAs). Working closely with the SVAs to support KPI delivery. To motivate and support the development and progression of SVAs Work closely with bid and proposal managers to ensure that the submission has met the requirements, working within the required timescales Manage SV data and evidence for reporting and audit purposes Produce reports for clients (and frameworks where relevant) and ensuring that all data is recorded with any client, framework or partner portals as requested. Manage event and initiative budgets Work closely with Communications and Marketing Business Partner to help drive positive local media and trade news, helping demonstrate our approach to creating social value and legacy. Create comms plans for each site/contract and produce regular social media content.WHAT WE LOOKING FOR:You should have a strong understanding of Social Value within a complex corporate organization, along with a broader knowledge of Social Value drivers, relevant acts, policies, and delivery mechanisms. An awareness of safeguarding principles is essential, as well as familiarity with non-financial reporting frameworks and economic valuation models such as TOMS. A qualification in Social Value, Sustainability, or Community Development is desirable, with relevant experience in areas such as youth work, urban regeneration, or other Social Value initiatives.Additionally, you must demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to deliver engaging presentations and produce high-quality bid writing, reports, and evaluations. Strong project management capabilities are essential, along with the ability to build and maintain long-term professional relationships.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 include 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 or to discuss career opportunities in strict confidence, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly 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
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