Commercial Lead - Fire Safety

About the Role

We’re looking for a commercially sharp leader to take ownership of the commercial function across our passive fire protection projects within the public and private sectors. This is not a traditional QS role. It is a commercial leadership position, office-based in Plymouth, with full accountability for margin performance, financial governance, and team development.

You will lead a team of commercial professionals, manage subcontractor procurement and negotiation, oversee valuations and invoicing, and provide the commercial insight that keeps our project delivery teams on track. If you’ve moved beyond pure quantity surveying into genuine commercial management and you’re looking for a role where you own the numbers and lead the people, this could be the right move.

What You’ll Do

• Own the commercial performance of a portfolio of passive fire projects – gross profit, forecasting, cost control, and governance
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of approximately four commercial staff
• Manage subcontractor procurement, negotiation, and commercial terms
• Deliver monthly valuations and invoicing, targeting 80% completion by month-end
• Report commercial performance including contribution margin, cash flow, and debtor management
• Identify and pursue uplift and variation opportunities across the project portfolio
• Provide commercial guidance and accurate cost reporting to Project Managers

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a commercial management or senior QS role with team leadership responsibility
• Strong track record in margin management, financial forecasting, and cost control
• Experience of subcontractor negotiation and procurement within construction, building services, or a related sector
• Confident managing and developing a commercial team
• Degree or equivalent in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or Construction Economics preferred – equivalent commercial experience considered
• Passive fire or fire compliance sector experience is welcomed but not essential – we will support the right commercial leader to build that knowledge

About Ventro Group

Ventro Group is a PE-backed fire safety and building compliance business operating across multiple brands including Ventro, Firntec, and HJS. We deliver passive fire protection, fire door installation and maintenance, façade remediation, and a range of compliance services across the UK. We are growing rapidly and our commercial function is central to that growth.

This role is based at our Plymouth headquarters and is fully office-based – no site visits, no travel disruption. We offer a stable base from which to lead a commercially demanding and rewarding function.

How to Apply

Apply directly through LinkedIn or contact the Ventro Talent Acquisition team for a confidential conversation.