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- Tasks: Manage and negotiate complex defence contracts while driving strategic execution.
- Company: Leading Prime contractor supplying the UK MOD with a focus on Cyber and Intelligence.
- Benefits: Generous holiday, pension scheme, life assurance, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a real impact in defence and cyber sectors.
- Qualifications: Experience in contract negotiation and a degree in business or equivalent.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
Our client is a leading Prime contractor and major supplier to the UK MOD. They are looking for someone to provide commercial support to their existing Cyber and Intelligence and Space department. They are looking for a Senior Contract and Subcontract Manager to manage, negotiate and run complex defence contracts and subcontracts. You will be driving strategic contract execution and commercial solutions across business requirements.
Working Patterns: This is a hybrid role with 2-3 days per week on site. Travel to other sites may be required.
The Key Responsibilities of a Contracts Manager:
- Take full ownership of end to end delivery of contracts and subcontracts across both competitive bids and live programmes.
- Define, develop and execute commercial and subcontracting strategies aligned with programme objectives and customer needs.
- Provide commercial support on complex proposals, shaping contracting approaches, terms and conditions to deliver competitive solutions.
- Manage contractual and sub contractual changes from bid through to delivery and close out.
- Identify, assess and mitigate commercial risks while pursuing new opportunities, to create effective outcomes.
- Contribute to the development of robust business cases, forecasts and investment decisions to provide a clear commercial insight and recommendations to support decision making.
- Work closely with cross functional teams, ensuring alignment across disciplines and delivery against objectives.
Key Skills required for the Contracts Manager:
- Proven experience negotiating commercial and subcontract agreements in Defence or Cyber sectors.
- Experience of bidding on large, complex requirements.
- Degree in business or equivalent professional experience.
- Strong communicator with a proactive, adaptable mindset.
- Familiarity with Agile and other contracting methodologies.
- Financial acumen with the ability to translate programme data into actionable insights.
- Track record of driving performance and solving complex problems.
- Skilled in managing customer and subcontractor relationships.
Desirable:
- Experience working with UK Government departments as a prime or subcontractor.
- Exposure to international suppliers and collaborative delivery models.
- Knowledge of Teaming Agreements and strategic partnerships.
Benefits:
- 25 days holiday (increasing to 27 days) + statutory public holidays.
- Contributory Pension Scheme (up to 10.5% company contribution).
- 6 times salary ‘Life Assurance’.
- Flexible Benefits scheme.
- Discretionary Bonus scheme.
- Enhanced family friendly policies.
- 37hr standard working week, with an early finish on Fridays whilst operating a ‘Hybrid Working Model’.
- Canteen facilities are available in some sites.
Our client is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
You will be required to hold a minimum of SC Clearance. If you do not hold an active SC clearance, please familiarise yourself with the vetting process before applying.
Commercial Manager employer: Datasource Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Datasource Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence and cyber sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and how they align with your experience. Tailor your responses to highlight your skills in managing complex contracts and driving strategic solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since you’ll be dealing with contracts, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play scenarios with a friend or mentor to build confidence before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Commercial Manager. Highlight your experience in negotiating contracts and managing complex proposals, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills in the defence or cyber sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Mention your understanding of commercial strategies and how you can contribute to our Cyber and Intelligence and Space department.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Senior Contracts Manager, strong communication is essential. In your application, demonstrate your ability to work with cross-functional teams and manage relationships with customers and subcontractors. We want to see how you can drive performance through effective communication.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows your enthusiasm for joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Datasource Recruitment
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the types of contracts and subcontracts relevant to the role. Brush up on your knowledge of defence and cyber sectors, as well as any specific methodologies mentioned in the job description. This will help you speak confidently about your experience and how it aligns with the company's needs.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've led, especially those involving complex requirements. Be ready to discuss your approach to managing contractual changes and how you've successfully mitigated risks in previous roles. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of a Senior Contracts Manager.
✨Align with Their Objectives
Research the company’s current projects and objectives, particularly in the Cyber and Intelligence and Space department. Think about how your skills can contribute to their goals and be prepared to discuss this during the interview. Showing that you understand their business will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Prepare by thinking through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would address them. This will showcase your proactive mindset and ability to drive performance under pressure.
