Senior Commercial Officer / Contracts Manager - Defence

The Senior Commercial Officer / Contracts Manager will be responsible to actively support the winning and delivery of profitable business and provide commercial advice, support and governance to the business at all levels by ensuring the company contracts with customers and suppliers on terms that protect the Commercial interests of the business. Role – Senior Commercial Officer / Contracts Manager Location – Brighton, East Sussex (hybrid working, min 2 days onsite per week) Salary – Competitive (DOE) + benefits Key responsibilities for the Senior Commercial Officer / Contracts Manager role and not limited to: Drives successful business outcomes aligned with financial targets, including revenue, orders, and cash flow. Provides strategic guidance on contracts, risk mitigation, and compliance with laws and regulations. Drafts and negotiates contracts to align with both customer and company interests, ensuring legal and regulatory compliance (UK law, FAR, DFARS, DEFCONS). Oversees end-to-end contract management including bids, proposals, change control, and customer negotiations. Ensures accurate invoicing, milestone tracking, and customer satisfaction throughout the contract lifecycle. Monitors commercial performance and ensures timely final payments and proper closure in line with governance requirements. Collaborates with Integrated Product Leads on strategy, commercial updates, and performance metrics. Works with Trade Compliance to manage export/import classification and ensure correct documentation for overseas deliveries. Key skills and experience required for the Senior Commercial Officer / Contracts Manager role and not limited to: Proven track record in commercial contract management, ideally within the defence sector or similarly regulated industries. Extensive experience managing the full contract lifecycle, from pre-signature negotiations to post-award. Skilled in engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels, both internally and externally. Eligible for UK Security Clearance (SC level). To apply for this Senior Commercial Officer / Senior Contracts Officer / Contracts Manager / Commercial Manager / Commercial Contracts Manager, candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK