Commercial Pricing and Contracts Manager - Durham
The Role and the Department
Research and Innovation Services (RIS) provides guidance, expert advice and handson support for all aspects of research and researchrelated activity, including securing funding, working with partners, supporting knowledge exchange and impact, commercialisation, and ensuring good
The Research Operations Team, the largest team within the Directorate, provides comprehensive support to academic and Professional Support Services (PSS) colleagues across the full lifecycle of a research project. The team delivers preaward, contracting, postaward and consultancy support. This includes tailored financial and contractual advice from the earliest stages of planning, costing and pricing proposals, through to efficient contract negotiation and robust financial management and compliance for awarded projects.
The Commercial Pricing and Contracts Manager sits within the Research Contracting Hub and leads the development and delivery of specialist commercial support for consultancy, contract research, tender opportunities and other externally funded activities. The role is responsible for providing expert advice on costing, pricing, commercial terms and contract negotiation, enabling the University to maximise income opportunities while managing financial, legal, operational and reputational risks.
Reporting to a Senior Research Contracts Manager, the postholder provides day-to-day supervision and line management for a Research and Consultancy Coordinator, supporting their development and ensuring the effective delivery of consultancy, tender and contracting support services.
Working closely with academic colleagues, Research Operations, Business Development, Finance, Procurement and Legal Services, the postholder will support the development of commercially sustainable proposals, negotiate commercial and contractual arrangements with external organisations, and provide leadership in the development of processes and approaches that enhance the University's commercial research and consultancy activities.
The role acts as a key specialist adviser on commercial research and consultancy matters, supporting the successful development of new business opportunities while ensuring compliance with University policies, contractual obligations and sector best practice. Through effective stakeholder engagement, process improvement and staff leadership, the postholder will help strengthen the University's commercial capability, increase income generation and deliver a high-quality service to internal and external partners.
Key Responsibilities
Lead on the costing, pricing and commercial review of consultancy, contract research, tender and business development opportunities.
Provide expert advice on commercial pricing strategies, cost recovery and financial sustainability.
Support academic and professional service colleagues in the preparation of competitive tender submissions, proposals and commercial bids.
Negotiate commercial and contractual terms with customers, partners, subcontractors and funders to secure favourable outcomes for the University.
Draft and review consultancy, service, collaboration and research-related contracts and contract-related documentation.
Provide specialist guidance on contractual risk, commitments, liability, intellectual property, confidentiality and compliance requirements.
Develop and maintain standard proposal and contract templates, pricing models and guidance materials.
Contribute to the development of institutional policies, procedures and training relating to commercial research, consultancy and contracting activities.
- Maintain the University's presence on relevant procurement and tendering portals, ensuring organisational information, accreditations and supporting documentation remain current and compliant
Further information about the role and the responsibilities is at the bottom of this job description.
Commercial Pricing and Contracts Manager - Durham employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. As a Strategic Pre-Award Grants Manager, you will benefit from a dynamic environment that values innovation and teamwork, while also enjoying access to comprehensive training opportunities and a commitment to work-life balance in the vibrant city of Durham.
