At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex procurement and contract management to deliver value and high-quality outcomes.
- Company: Join a dynamic team within the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive workplace committed to your career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving commercial transformation and improving efficiency.
- Qualifications: MCIPS qualified or working towards it, with public sector procurement experience.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh, London, Manchester
The Commercial and Contracts Management team delivers end-to-end commercial activity across the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), supporting Technology, People Services, Property and Market Research.
As a Principal Commercial Manager, you will play a senior role within a high-performing team, leading complex procurement and contract management activity. Reporting to the Assistant Director Commercial, you will lead technology procurement and support wider commercial priorities to deliver value for money and high-quality outcomes.
You will be responsible for delivering end-to-end procurement in line with government standards, while embedding strong contract and supplier management across all activity. You will also use management information, reporting and commercial analytics to inform decision-making and drive performance improvements.
A key focus is driving commercial transformation—identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, deliver savings and strengthen supplier performance. You will build strong relationships with stakeholders and suppliers, influencing to ensure commercial arrangements meet organisational needs.
You will also lead and develop others, promoting commercial capability across the organisation. To succeed, you will be MCIPS qualified (or working towards) with strong experience delivering procurement in a public sector or regulated environment.
The Benefits
Your benefits package will include a competitive contributory pension scheme and generous annual leave, plus opportunities for flexible and hybrid working. The package also includes childcare benefits, season ticket, and bicycle loans. The Civil Service is committed to becoming the most inclusive employer in the UK and we want to maximise the potential of everyone who chooses to work for us. In return for your dedication, you will enjoy our commitment to your career and development.
Closing date: 2 June 2026.
Principal Commercial Manager in London employer: Competition and Markets Authority
As a Principal Commercial Manager within the Competition and Markets Authority, you will join a dynamic team dedicated to driving commercial transformation and delivering high-quality outcomes across various sectors. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working options, and a focus on inclusivity, this role offers a unique opportunity to influence procurement strategies while enjoying a comprehensive benefits package that supports your work-life balance and career growth.
Contact Details:
Competition and Markets Authority Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Commercial Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those who work at the CMA or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just help you land that Principal Commercial Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to procurement and contract management. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help you showcase your experience effectively!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your commercial transformation skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've identified opportunities for efficiency and savings. This is key for the role, so make sure you highlight your successes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Commercial Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Commercial Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement and contract management, especially in public sector environments, to show us you’re the right fit.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your impact! Use specific examples of how you've driven commercial transformation or improved supplier performance in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your writing is easy to read and free from jargon. This will help us understand your qualifications quickly.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Competition and Markets Authority
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your procurement knowledge, especially in a public sector context. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've delivered value for money and high-quality outcomes in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Commercial Manager, you'll be leading a team. Prepare to share experiences where you've successfully led others, promoted commercial capability, or influenced stakeholders to achieve organisational goals.
✨Understand the CMA's Needs
Research the Competition and Markets Authority and their current commercial priorities. Tailor your responses to show how your skills and experience align with their mission and how you can contribute to their commercial transformation efforts.
✨Be Data-Driven
Since the role involves using management information and commercial analytics, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to inform decision-making and drive performance improvements in past roles.
