At a Glance
- Tasks: Support public sector clients with procurement, contract management, and supplier negotiations.
- Company: Join a leading defence sector company with exciting growth opportunities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, professional development, and social events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence sector while enjoying a hybrid work environment.
- Qualifications: Degree or equivalent experience in procurement and contract management.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career progression and mentorship opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Due to continued growth and new project wins, our client is looking for Commercial Managers to join their team and work across a range of defence sector programmes. Roles are available at various levels depending on your experience. This is a hybrid position, with 3 days expected on-site with the client and 2 days remote or from your nearest office.
Project locations include: Bristol, Reading, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Derby and Cumbria.
As a Commercial Manager, you’ll be supporting public sector clients with a wide range of commercial services that may include but are not limited to:
- Supporting end-to-end procurement processes – from strategy and sourcing through to contract award
- Working closely with internal teams and stakeholders to deliver commercial insights
- Running tenders, evaluating suppliers, and negotiating contracts
- Managing the contract lifecycle and ensuring compliance with relevant public sector regulations (including DSPCR, PCR, PA)
- Monitoring supplier performance and helping drive improvements and innovation
- Identifying and mitigating commercial risks, ensuring projects stay on track
- Leading or supporting commercial transformation and change initiatives
- Collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders, from delivery teams to government agencies
Qualifications:
- Degree in a relevant subject or equivalent practical experience
- Relevant professional qualifications such as CIPS, or equivalent commercial/procurement experience
- Experience in procurement, contract management, and supplier negotiations – ideally in defence, infrastructure, or public sector
- Familiar with contract forms such as NEC, JCT, or FIDIC
- Able to analyse cost and risk data to support decision-making
- SC clearance or ability to obtain
Benefits on Offer:
- Competitive salary
- Support to gain professional qualifications
- Structured learning & development pathways
- Flexible working and hybrid arrangements
- Employee assistance programme
- Company pension
- Season ticket loan
- Cycle to work scheme
- Ability to buy/sell annual leave
- Social events and team activities
- Corporate gym memberships
- Mentorship opportunities
- Access to a range of digital learning platforms
Commercial Manager - Defence employer: Frontier Resourcing
Contact Detail:
Frontier Resourcing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager - Defence
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the defence sector, attend industry events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and how your experience aligns with their needs. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Commercial Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate contracts effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or mentors to build your confidence before the real deal.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you land that Commercial Manager role. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities tailored just for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager - Defence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Commercial Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement, contract management, and any relevant qualifications like CIPS. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the defence sector and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific projects or roles that relate to the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We’re keen to see examples of how you’ve supported procurement processes or managed contracts in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Frontier Resourcing
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the specifics of procurement processes and contract management, especially in the defence sector. Familiarise yourself with relevant regulations like DSPCR and PCR, as well as contract forms such as NEC and JCT. This knowledge will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in procurement and supplier negotiations. Have specific examples ready that highlight your ability to manage contracts and mitigate risks. This will help demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of a Commercial Manager.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since collaboration is key in this role, think about how you've worked with various stakeholders in the past. Be ready to share examples of how you’ve successfully communicated and collaborated with teams or government agencies to achieve project goals.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the company’s current projects or their approach to commercial transformation. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the company aligns with your career goals and values.