📢Full Job Description: Commercial Contracts Director (May to need be accessed via Desktop or our Careers website: https://www.ardent-management.com/current-vacancies )📢
Role: Commercial Contracts Director
📍 Location: Birmingham / London
⏰ Full Time - Permanent
💼 Salary: Competitive
About Us:
Ardent is the UK’s leading provider of land, consent management, and stakeholder engagement services, supporting major infrastructure and regeneration projects from concept to delivery. We are passionate about delivering life-improving change for communities and future generations.
Role Purpose:
The Commercial Contracts Director will be accountable for the effective contractual delivery of all projects across the Ardent organisation. The role involves managing the full contract lifecycle, from NDA and contract review at tender stage through to contract award, negotiation, signature, and delivery. This position requires outstanding communication skills to engage the Projects team and resolve contractual challenges with Divisional Heads and Executive Board members. The role covers the British Isles and ROI, ensuring market-leading contractual governance, commercial outcomes, and risk mitigation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Contract Lifecycle Management: Lead and direct full contract and NDA lifecycle management, including drafting, negotiation, execution, and change control of all client, supplier, and partner agreements.
- Commercial Risk Strategy: Define acceptable positions on indemnities, liability, IP/licensing, warranties, and PI. Guide PADs in managing commercial issues, claims, and disputes throughout the project lifecycle.
- Claims Management: Proactively protect Ardent’s rights regarding delay, disruption, and additional services through early notices, evidence packs, and structured resolution under the contract.
- Contract Governance: Strengthen contract governance and capability across PADs/PAMs, providing tools, templates, guidance, and coaching for consistent contract administration and high-quality execution.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Ensure bids, project delivery, and organisational decision-making are commercially optimised through close collaboration with Growth, Professional Services, and Finance.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with Divisional Heads and Executive Board members to resolve contractual challenges and ensure alignment on project delivery.
- Commercial Data Analysis: Embed data-led decision-making in project commercial leadership to support growth across sectors and geographies.
- Continuous Improvement: Lead continuous improvement initiatives across all projects, ensuring alignment of resources, communication, governance, and reporting.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong Organisational and Time-Management Skills: Ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and tasks efficiently and effectively.
- Excellent Written English, Formatting, and Attention to Detail: Proficiency in drafting, reviewing, and editing complex documents with precision and clarity.
- Ability to Work Under Pressure and to Deadlines: Proven track record of maintaining high performance levels in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
- Good Interpersonal and Coordination Skills: Ability to build and maintain relationships with internal teams, clients, and stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook): Strong command of Microsoft Office applications for document creation, data analysis, presentations, and email communication.
- Experience in Administrative or Coordinator Roles: Previous experience in roles involving bids, proposals, marketing, or projects, demonstrating the ability to support complex processes.
- Experience in Fast-Paced, Deadline-Driven Environments: Demonstrated ability to thrive in environments where quick decision-making and adaptability are crucial.
Desirable:
- Familiarity with Bid Management or Document Management Software: Knowledge of tools and software used for managing bids and documents, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
- Knowledge of Public Sector Procurement Processes (OJEU/Find a Tender Service): Understanding of public sector procurement regulations and processes, providing insight into compliance and standards.
Pay Range and Compensation Package:
✨ Hybrid working
✨ 25 days of annual leave (with options to buy or carry over)
✨ Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
✨ Company pension scheme
✨ Benenden Health Care (mental health support, 24/7 GP services, physiotherapy, optical and dental cover, personal accident protection)
✨ Cycle to Work scheme, electric car leasing, recognition awards, long service leave, discretionary annual bonus scheme
Equal Opportunity Statement:
🌈 We’re proud to be an equal opportunities employer, and we’re passionate about creating a workplace where you’re empowered to bring your authentic self to work every day. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive team where everyone belongs. We welcome talent from all backgrounds and actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups.
🚀 If you’re ready to grow with a business that’s scaling rapidly and making a real impact, you’re in the right place!
Commercial Contracts Director in England employer: Ardent
Ardent is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive benefits such as hybrid working, generous annual leave, and comprehensive health care support, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally in the vibrant city of Leeds. Join us to be part of a passionate team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on communities and future generations.
