About Us

Together we inspire better ways of creating the places, communities and business of tomorrow.

We are Wates, the UK’s leading family-owned development, building and property maintenance company. Founded over 125 years ago, we know about the built environment. We partner with a wide range of public and private sector customers and partners to create the places, communities and businesses of tomorrow.

6,000

Employees (2024)

£2.18bn

Turnover (2023)

£225m

Social value generated (2023)

45%

Reduction in Scope 1 & 2 emissions against a 2019 baseline

Wates family 2022

Reimagining places for people to thrive

Now in our fourth generation of family ownership, we are committed to the long-term sustainability of the built environment and to making our industry more inclusive and representative of the communities we work in.

Our goals are to be more sustainable, trusted and progressive, and our people are driven by our behaviours of ‘we care’, ‘we are fair’, and ‘we look for a better way’.

London business school atrium

Long term financial resilience

As a multi generational, family-owned business we are not driven by short term shareholder demands, but by decisions which are in the long term interest of the business.

Our owners, the Wates Family, are committed to handing over to the next generation, an even stronger, more sustainable business. This approach drives all our investment decisions and allows us to achieve progressive earnings growth and to partner with customers to deliver products and services that offer the best value for money possible. 

Zero harm, we're safer together safety campaign

Health and safety

Our safety strategy: Zero Harm: We’re Safer Together, has produced better results every year since it was first introduced in 2016.

It is aimed at eliminating physical and psychological harm entirely from all our workplaces. In 2022, we led the industry across all key health and safety metrics, while continuing to search for new ways to make us even safer still. 

we are committed to quality and sustainability

Quality

We are committed to eliminating the practical and economic impacts of any quality failures from each of our businesses, while also achieving full compliance with all relevant regulatory and legislative standards. 

Our commitment to quality across the industry was demonstrated through our role in helping draft the Government’s Construction Playbook best practice guide in 2022.

Our industry leading women in construction recruitment programme

Inclusion and diversity

Our ambition is to have a more diverse workforce and to be recognised as a leader in promoting diversity and inclusion in our own business and in the wider industry.

We are developing a more inclusive culture by establishing clear, non-negotiable expectations about colleagues’ behaviour and language.

We have developed award-winning inclusivity programmes to help change our culture, and we are always looking to build on that work further. 

University of Portsmouth sustainability

Environment

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon company and we’re working to eliminate Scope 1 and 2 carbon and waste from our business operations.

We are also collaborating with customers and suppliers to achieve reductions in Scope 3 emissions in response to rapidly developing customer demands as the net zero agenda becomes ever more important. 

Using offsite manufacturing we can improve productivity, efficiency and safety in construction

Innovation

We have always looked for new and better ways of meeting our customers’ needs and we are committed to developing and embracing the best new ideas that generate value and help us to tackle shared challenges.

Whether we’re cutting operating costs with optimised construction or saving energy with Passivhaus technology, we can connect you with the right answers.

Latest career opportunities

Assistant Quantity Surveyor

Location: Walton-On-Thames

Job Type: Commercial

Application Deadline: 13-12-2024

We have an opportunity for an Assistant Quantity Surveyor to join our Wates team within our responsive maintenance division. You will be working out of our Walton on Thames office on one of our social housing contracts.Key Accountabilities will include: Produce commercial reports both internally and externally to the company Ensure the timely receipt of quotations for materials, equipment and Sub-subcontract works, undertake commercial assessment of quotes received and ensure the timely placement of orders on commercially advantageous terms to facilitate project delivery and ensure business objectives are met. Regularly complete on site measurements/ take offs Ensure all contractual processes are completed on timeYou must have a full UK driving licence with access to a vehicle.We are looking for a good work ethic and the ability to work under a Project Surveyor and within a team of Surveyors of different levels of knowledge.To be successful in the role you will be able to liaise with Client and have the personal skills to create effective relationships with the team.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

Business Development Director

Location: Manchester

Job Type: Business Development

Application Deadline: 13-12-2024

Wates Group are recruiting for a Business Development Director to join our Construction West team to develop strategies to grow our Western Region business unit in line with overall objectives set by construction strategy boards.If you are passionate about the construction industry with proven skills and 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 Business Development Directors are a valuable part of our business, leading the way to manage the Business Development teams within the region to delivery profitable work winning opportunities in line with the overall objectives of the Construction Group.AS OUR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR YOU WILL: Develop and execute regional business development strategies in line with company objectives. Manage the business development function, ensuring compliance with internal governance and project selection processes. Conduct research and engage with clients, stakeholders, and consultants to identify growth opportunities by sector or geography. Align Business Development Manager activities with regional strategies. Develop and maintain relationship plans with key clients and consultant teams. Influence bid strategies by communicating client/project drivers to the bid team. Ensure Salesforce data is up-to-date and accessible to senior leaders. Develop digital and hardcopy media plans to communicate the company’s core purpose and support key bids. Oversee the submission of high-quality PQQs/EOIs. Formulate and manage a targeted client marketing plan within budget. Lead the regional Customer Satisfaction Programme and address key areas of client concern.WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FORYou should have a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry, including commercial and design aspects, and possess strong market intelligence regarding supply chains, consultants, competitors, and technologies. An understanding of how public sector procurement evolves is also necessary. Key skills include excellent communication abilities both internally and externally, proficiency in bid strategy, production, and process, strong negotiation and presentation skills, effective people, team, and time management, and the ability to think strategically. You will also have a willingness to travel.WHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & bonus 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/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

Contracts Manager

Location: Croydon

Job Type: Trades and Labour

Application Deadline: 13-12-2024

We have an opportunity for a Contracts Manager to join our Wates team within our Responsive Maintenance division. You will be based out of our Croydon office working on one of our social housing contracts which may include, Voids, Planned and Disrepair workstreams that achieves target profit, increases contract turnover whilst ensuring compliance with Health and Safety regulations.Key Accountabilities will include: Lead a team of Supervisors, Administrators, Planners and Operatives Manage, monitor, review and oversee customer satisfaction across the contract Ensure that large multi-trade jobs are booked in by the scheduling team and are checked to clarify what trades and timeframes are required Responsible for operatives adhering to the attendance, mobile phone, driving, no smoking and alcohol and drugs policies, ensuring that if the policies and procedures are not followed the appropriate action is taken Work closely with Commercial team to identify and rectify Invoicing issues affecting contract profit and loss margins Ensure Health and Safety compliance in adherence with our Wates Operating FrameworkWe are looking for an experienced Contracts Manager who: Has Repairs and Maintenance sector experience Has a proven track record in managing large Maintenance contracts Has a proven track record in managing a large and diverse direct labour organisation and Supply Chain. Be fully compliant and has a proven track record in Health and Safety Management. Has proven commercial acumen in running large Maintenance contractsYou must have a full UK driving licence.To be successful in this role you will be an excellent communicator able to influence at all levels, be highly organised and driven to achieve high levels of customer and client satisfaction.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

HR Business Partner

Location: Redditch

Job Type: HR

Application Deadline: 29-11-2024

Are you a dynamic HR professional with a proven track record of delivering impactful people strategies? Join our team as an HR Business Partner and make a difference!At Wates Group, we believe our people are our greatest asset. As an HR Business Partner, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering people-focused solutions that align with our business strategy, drive performance, and support sustainable growth.What You’ll Do: Collaborate with business leaders to coach, support, and develop high-performing teams. Lead the annual salary and bonus review process with accuracy and integrity. Drive talent and succession planning to nurture internal development and promote diversity. Manage change programmes, ensuring compliance with legislative and organisational values. Provide guidance on employee relations, performance management, and recruitment strategies.What You’ll Bring: CIPD Level 5 qualification (or equivalent), with experience in delivering HR services in a fast-paced, commercial environment. Strong knowledge of employment law, HR best practices, and practical application. Exceptional coaching, influencing, and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively across all levels of the organisation. A commercial mindset and the ability to provide data-driven insights for strategic decision-making.Why Join Us?At Wates Group, we are committed to Zero Harm and fostering a culture that prioritises health, safety, and wellbeing. You'll be part of a collaborative, supportive team where your expertise will drive meaningful change and create a positive impact.This role is based out of our Redditch offices and will require a clear presence in the office and the North & Central Region, with some travel to London monthly. Please contact the team Recruitment@wates.co.uk if you have any questions or queries.WHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & profit share Flexible working  Car Allowance & Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates). Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 3% 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/ Wates are committed to the fair treatment of people with criminal records, including employees and potential employees. We ensure that our recruitment, promotion, and retention activity does not treat people less favourably because of an offending background.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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