At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the implementation of government contracting policy and simplify procurement processes.
- Company: Join a dynamic team within the Civil Service, making a real impact on public delivery.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, flexible working, and 25+ days annual leave.
- Other info: Flexible working model with opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- Why this job: Drive national progress by solving complex problems and improving public sector contracts.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and knowledge of public procurement processes required.
The predicted salary is between 72771 - 80776 £ per year.
Position: Head of Contracting Policy
Band: 6
Salary: £72,771 - £80,776
Location: Liverpool/Norwich/Newport/Birmingham
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time/Compressed
Closing Date: 18/06/2026
Interview Date(s): w/c 20th July (subject to change)
Psychometric testing will be completed between 30th June - 10th July
Are you passionate about implementing government policy? Are you motivated by solving complex problems and driving continuous improvement?
Why this role exists & the value you bring:
You will solve commercial complexity for the GCA by bridging legal requirements and practical strategy. Dismantle bureaucratic friction, simplify contracts, and accelerate public delivery to safeguard taxpayer money and champion national progress.
Job Summary:
As the Head of Contracting Policy Implementation operating within a fast-paced, multi-site environment, you will work as part of a senior team to embed commercial and procurement policy across GCA’s operations. You will drive value for the nation by continuously improving procurement processes, overseeing the standardisation of the Public Sector Contract, and advising staff on critical, modern policy developments making our agreements simpler, faster and better.
Key Accountabilities:
- Lead and guide team members, manage performance to ensure a high-performing team, and support staff development through regular feedback.
- Develop and continuously improve high-quality, simplified commercial contract conditions and procurement documentation.
- Oversee the continuous improvement of the Public Sector Contract in GCA as the BAU standard set of commercial terms and conditions.
- Maintain GCA’s relationships with customers, GLD and central Cabinet Office Policy.
- Develop GCA policy approaches to drive up quality and work with the senior team to embed these in commercial strategies.
- Provide expertise and objective operational advice to drive best in class commercial outcomes.
- Manage the provision of legal services to support operational support and dispute cases.
Essential Criteria (to be assessed at application stage):
- Leadership capability
- Good knowledge of public procurement processes, procedures, tools, techniques, and the regulatory environment.
- Proven ability to build, manage, and maintain excellent relationships with colleagues, customers, and central stakeholders.
- Strong analytical skills to understand complex issues and make reasoned decisions based on evidence and commercial experience.
Success Profiles (to be assessed at interview):
- Behaviours:
- Leadership (To be assessed via presentation at interview)
- Communicating and influencing
- Changing and Improving
- Seeing the Big Picture
- Managing a Quality Service
Valuing our people:
- Competitive salary
- Generous pension scheme
- A discretionary non-contractual performance related bonus
- Working remotely in addition to working in advertised office location
- Flexi time scheme (available for B1-B6)
- Minimum 25 days annual leave to a maximum service related 30 days excluding bank holidays
GCA operates a smarter working model that balances flexibility with collaboration. Successful candidates are expected to spend at least 26 days per quarter (approximately 2 days per week, pro-rata) at their contracted office, another GCA site, or off-site for meetings. For the remainder of the time, you may work from home or another suitable location that meets business needs.
Selection Process:
A reserve list may be held for up to 12 months, which the Civil Service may use to fill future suitably similar vacancies across government for candidates who are considered appointable following interview.
Head of Contracting policy in Norwich employer: Crown Commercial Service
As a leading employer in the public sector, GCA offers a competitive salary and generous benefits, including a robust pension scheme and flexible working arrangements that promote work-life balance. Our commitment to employee development is evident through continuous training opportunities and a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal environment for those passionate about driving meaningful change in government policy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Contracting policy in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research GCA's values, recent projects, and their approach to public procurement. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your leadership skills! Since this role is all about guiding teams and driving improvements, think of examples from your past where you've led a project or improved a process. Be ready to share these stories during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn to gain insights into the company culture and expectations. Plus, it might just give you an edge when it comes to getting noticed!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at GCA.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Contracting policy in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Contracting Policy. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a team, don’t forget to share examples of your leadership experience. We want to see how you've managed teams and driven performance in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and is considered in the selection process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Crown Commercial Service
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of public procurement processes and the regulatory environment. Brush up on the latest policy developments and be ready to discuss how they impact contracting. This will show your expertise and passion for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your leadership capability during the interview, especially if there's a presentation involved. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or project, focusing on how you managed performance and supported staff development.
✨Build Relationships
Highlight your ability to build and maintain excellent relationships with colleagues and stakeholders. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated complex relationships in previous roles, as this is crucial for the Head of Contracting Policy position.
✨Think Big Picture
During the interview, make sure to communicate your understanding of the bigger picture. Discuss how your work can drive national progress and safeguard taxpayer money. This will demonstrate that you’re not just focused on the details but also on the overall impact of your role.
