At a Glance
- Tasks: Support public sector clients with procurement, contract management, and supplier negotiations.
- Company: Join a leading firm in the defence sector with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, professional development, and social events.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and access to mentorship.
- 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.
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.
Responsibilities
- 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 in London employer: Frontier Resourcing
Contact Detail:
Frontier Resourcing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager - Defence in London
✨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 make it easy for you to find and apply for roles that match your skills. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team in the defence sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager - Defence in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Commercial Manager role. Highlight your experience in procurement and contract management, especially in the defence or public sector. 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 role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention any relevant qualifications like CIPS that could set you apart.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements rather than just duties. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve successfully managed contracts or improved supplier performance. We love seeing results!
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 key responsibilities of a Commercial Manager in the defence sector. Familiarise yourself with procurement processes, contract management, and relevant regulations like DSPCR and PCR. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also understand the nuances of the industry.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in supplier negotiations and contract lifecycle management. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it easier for the interviewer to see how your skills align with their needs.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the company's current projects or challenges they face in the defence sector. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to be asked how you would handle specific situations related to commercial risks or supplier performance. Think through potential scenarios beforehand and be ready to discuss your thought process and decision-making strategies. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to think on your feet.