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- Tasks: Manage complex government and defence contracts in a fast-paced aviation environment.
- Company: Join a leading aviation organisation with a focus on government programmes.
- Benefits: High level of commercial ownership, exposure to senior stakeholders, and long-term growth opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on strategically important projects and travel occasionally.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the aviation and defence sector while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Business or Law, with experience in contract management and negotiation.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Energy Jobline is the largest and fastest growing global Energy Job Board and Energy Hub. We have an audience reach of over 7 million energy professionals, 400,000+ monthly advertised global energy and engineering jobs, and work with the leading energy companies worldwide. We focus on the Oil & Gas, Renewables, Engineering, Power, and Nuclear markets as well as emerging technologies in EV, Battery, and Fusion. We are committed to ensuring that we offer the most exciting career opportunities from around the world for our jobseekers.
Arden White are currently recruiting for a Commercial Manager with a leading aviation organisation supporting high-value government and defence programmes. This is a critical, commercially focused role where you’ll take ownership of complex contracts within a highly regulated environment. You will lead on contract execution, financial performance, and compliance—working at the centre of major aerospace programmes that directly support operations. If you have strong experience managing UK government or defence contracts and thrive in a fast-paced, stakeholder-driven environment, this is a standout opportunity.
The Opportunity
You’ll play a pivotal role in managing the full commercial lifecycle of contracts across aviation services including MRO, training, retrofit, and support programmes. Acting as the key commercial interface with government customers, you will ensure contracts are delivered in line with regulatory frameworks, financial targets, and operational objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the commercial and contractual management of government and defence contracts
- Ensure full compliance with UK procurement regulations, including:
- Procurement Act 2023
- Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations (DSPCR)
- Single Source Contract Regulations (SSCR / SSRO)
- Contract Pricing Statements (CPS)
- Contract Reporting Plans (CRP)
- Final Price Adjustments (FPA)
What We’re Looking For
- Degree in Business, Law, or a related discipline
- Proven experience in commercial or contract management within defence, aerospace, or a regulated industry
- Strong working knowledge of SSRO / SSCR frameworks and UK government contracting
- Demonstrable experience managing complex, high-value contracts (typically £5M+)
- Strong background in contract negotiation and financial analysis
- Ability to manage multiple contracts and priorities simultaneously
- Excellent stakeholder management skills, including experience working with government customers
- High level of attention to detail with a proactive, solutions-driven mindset
- Advanced skills in Excel, reporting, and commercial analysis tools
Desirable Experience
- Understanding of aviation, aerospace, or defence operations
- Knowledge of UK procurement processes
- Experience improving reporting processes or developing tools (e.g. VBA, automation)
Additional Requirements
- Ability to obtain security clearance
- Willingness to travel occasionally (UK and internationally)
- Right to work in the UK
Why Apply?
- Work on strategically important government aviation programmes
- High level of commercial ownership and influence
- Exposure to senior stakeholders and complex contract environments
- Join a forward-thinking organisation with strong growth and long-term opportunities
If you’re a commercially driven professional looking to make an impact in the aviation and defence sector, we want to hear from you. If you feel you have the skills to succeed in this role, please click to apply.
Arden White specialises in technical engineering recruitment, and all job applications are managed by our team. We believe in the value of a personal touch, and we work hard to deliver a swift, professional, and friendly service for our clients and candidates. We are acting as a recruitment agency on behalf of our client for this vacancy, and whilst we are advertising the role, we are not the hiring company.
Due to the high volume of applications, we’re unable to respond to everyone individually. If you haven’t heard from us within 14 days, unfortunately you’ve not been unsuccessful on this occasion. However, please continue to monitor our website vacancies for more opportunities.
If you are interested in applying for this job please press the Apply Button and follow the application process. Energy Jobline wishes you the very best of luck in your next career move.
Commercial Manager -government and defence in Oxford employer: Energy Jobline CVL
Contact Detail:
Energy Jobline CVL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager -government and defence in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the aviation and defence 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 role in government contracts and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who truly gets what they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role involves contract management, being able to articulate your value during salary discussions is key. Role-play with a friend or use online resources to sharpen those skills before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always updating our listings, so keep an eye out for new opportunities that match your skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager -government and defence in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Commercial Manager role. Highlight your experience with government and defence contracts, and don’t forget to showcase your skills in contract negotiation and financial analysis.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific experiences that align with the job description and show your enthusiasm for working in the aviation and defence sector.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When filling out your application, be sure to emphasise your experience managing complex, high-value contracts. Use examples that demonstrate your understanding of UK procurement regulations and your ability to manage multiple priorities.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it makes the process smoother for both you and us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Energy Jobline CVL
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the types of contracts you'll be managing. Familiarise yourself with the key regulations like the Procurement Act 2023 and SSCR. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience working with government customers and managing multiple stakeholders. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated complex relationships and ensured successful contract execution in a fast-paced environment.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Since this role involves financial performance and contract profitability, brush up on your financial analysis skills. Be prepared to discuss how you've optimised costs and managed cash flow in previous roles, as this will be crucial for success in the position.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the company's approach to continuous improvement in contract management or how they handle compliance challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.