Technical/Construction Director, Bristol
VGP was founded in 1998. VGP is a dynamic, family-owned real estate developer of warehouse and logistics facilities. As one of Europe’s largest developers VGP have grown to have a presence in 18 countries with a team of over 400 professionals. In 2024 alone, the company successfully delivered 21 projects totalling 6.3 million sq. ft. and has 34 projects under construction covering 8.5 million sq. ft. VGP owns and operates 110 business parks across Europe, accommodating 400 diverse tenants, and manages a robust development pipeline. With a land bank of over 2,150 acres, the company is well-positioned for continued expansion. Notably, 59% of VGP’s workforce comprises engineers and technical specialists, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability.
A publicly listed company, VGP combines financial strength with a long-term vision, making this an exciting time to join them as they expand into the UK market.
As part of our continued expansion in the UK, we partnered exclusively with Beach Baker to recruit a hands-on, technically strong Construction Director to oversee all aspects of the design and construction phase of ground-up warehouse and logistics developments.
This role is an exciting opportunity senior leadership position, reporting directly to the UK Country Manager, and will play a key role in shaping and executing the company’s UK construction strategy.
The Opportunity
The Technical/Construction Director will be responsible for the end-to-end delivery of construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards.
The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise, strong commercial acumen, and proven leadership experience within the warehouse and logistics real estate sector (preferred but not essential).
This role requires a hands-on leader who is comfortable making on-site decisions, working closely with contractors, consultants, suppliers, and internal teams, and proactively solving project challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Construction & Development Strategy:
- Collaborate with the Country Manager and Development Team to provide technical input during the site acquisition process.
- Review and challenge external due diligence reports to ensure feasibility and cost efficiency.
- Provide initial construction cost estimations to support investment decisions.
- Develop and own the UK construction strategy, ensuring alignment with the company's European objectives.
Project & Construction Management:
- Lead and oversee the entire construction lifecycle, from pre-construction to project completion.
- Manage the procurement and coordination of contractors and suppliers, including direct subcontractor packages.
- Make on-site decisions to ensure smooth project execution and timely resolution of technical and organisational challenges.
- Implement value engineering solutions to optimize project costs and efficiency.
- Lead construction progress meetings, ensuring transparency and alignment with all stakeholders.
- Identify, manage, and mitigate risks and technical issues throughout project delivery.
Stakeholder & Team Leadership:
- Act as the primary point of contact for all technical and construction-related matters.
- Foster strong relationships with internal teams, external consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
- Provide mentorship and leadership to the UK construction team, hiring and developing talent as needed.
- Regularly report project status, risks, and financial performance to senior UK and group management.
Compliance & Financial Oversight:
- Ensure all projects comply with UK building regulations, health & safety standards, and construction best practices.
- Manage project budgets and forecasting, ensuring cost control and financial accountability.
- Oversee contract negotiations and tendering processes, ensuring the best value for the company.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
- Degree (or equivalent) in Construction, Civil Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Proven experience in a similar leadership role within property development/construction.
- Warehouse and logistics real estate experience preferred but not essential.
- Strong technical expertise in design, cost estimation, procurement, and construction management.
- Deep understanding of UK construction regulations, contracts, and best practices.
- Proficiency in construction management software, including design, budgeting, and scheduling tools.
- Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively under pressure.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
- Willingness to travel within the UK and occasionally to Europe.
- Valid UK driving licence.
Financial Rewards & Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Company car
- Annual bonus linked to personal and group performance KPIs.
- A dynamic, fast-growing international environment.
- The opportunity to work on high-profile, large-scale industrial developments.
- A collaborative and professional team dedicated to innovation and excellence.
How to Apply
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Technical/Construction Director to take a leadership role in a growing UK business, overseeing high-value industrial developments with one of Europe’s leading logistics real estate developers.
If you are a motivated and experienced Technical/Construction Director ready for a new challenge, we would like to hear from you.
Contact Us!
For more information or to submit your application, please contact:
Nicky Hughes
📧 nicky@beachbaker.co.uk
📞 07392 357740
or
Jonny Allen – VGP Country Manager
Jonny.allen@vgpparks.eu
tel. 07495 509 066
Beach Baker are retained consultants for this position and all third-party and direct applications will be forwarded to Beach Baker Recruitment and not accepted as an introduction.