At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial strategy for innovative defence and technology programmes.
- Company: Fast-growing defence tech organisation at the forefront of uncrewed systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, private medical, enhanced pension, and more.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making.
- Why this job: Shape commercial strategy and drive growth in a mission-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Significant commercial leadership experience in regulated industries.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 100000 € per year.
We’re supporting a fast-growing defence technology organisation operating at the forefront of uncrewed and autonomous systems. As part of continued growth, they are looking to appoint a Head of Commercial to lead and shape the commercial function across a portfolio of strategically important programmes. This is a senior leadership opportunity with significant influence across procurement, commercial strategy, contract management, and supplier engagement within a highly regulated defence environment. You’ll play a key role in driving commercial performance, managing risk, and ensuring innovative technologies are successfully translated into commercially viable solutions.
What you’ll be doing:
- Lead the commercial and procurement strategy across major defence and technology programmes
- Oversee sourcing activities including market analysis, supplier selection, RFQs, ITTs, and contract negotiations
- Develop and manage pricing strategies, cost models, and commercial frameworks
- Provide leadership on commercial risk management, governance, and change control
- Build and manage strategic supplier and stakeholder relationships
What we’re looking for:
- Significant commercial leadership experience within defence, aerospace, public sector, or another highly regulated industry
- Strong understanding of the Procurement Act 2023, SSCR, DEFCONs, and DEFSTANs
- Proven experience managing complex commercial agreements and contract structures including Firm Price, Cost Plus, and Framework Agreements
- Strong commercial acumen with experience leading negotiations and supplier strategy
Nice to have:
- MCIPS qualified (or equivalent)
- Experience with NEC or infrastructure-related contracts
- Active SC Clearance (or willingness to obtain)
Why join?
- Work on cutting-edge defence and autonomy programmes
- Join a high-growth, mission-driven organisation
- Play a key role in shaping commercial strategy and business growth
- Significant exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision-making
- Excellent benefits package including bonus, private medical, enhanced pension, and more
Head of Commercial employer: Future Talent Group
Join a dynamic and innovative defence technology organisation in Central Bristol, where you will have the opportunity to lead the commercial function for cutting-edge uncrewed and autonomous systems. With a strong focus on employee growth and a collaborative work culture, we offer an excellent benefits package, including bonuses and private medical care, ensuring that our team is well-supported both professionally and personally. This role not only allows you to influence strategic decision-making but also positions you at the forefront of shaping the future of defence technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Commercial
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence and procurement sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant LinkedIn groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! When you’re chatting with industry professionals or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with complex commercial agreements and your understanding of the Procurement Act 2023. This will set you apart as a candidate who knows their stuff.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Brush up on your negotiation strategies and be ready to discuss how you've managed risk in previous roles. We want to see that you can think on your feet and provide innovative solutions in a highly regulated environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our mission-driven organisation. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Commercial
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Commercial role. Highlight your experience in defence, procurement, and any relevant leadership roles. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your skills can drive our commercial strategy. Keep it engaging and relevant to the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples that demonstrate your commercial acumen and successful negotiations. We love seeing quantifiable results!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Future Talent Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and regulations in the defence sector, especially the Procurement Act 2023 and DEFCONs. Being well-versed in these areas will show that you're not just a candidate, but a knowledgeable leader ready to take charge.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led commercial strategies or managed complex agreements in the past. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and highlight your impact on previous projects.
✨Understand Their Needs
Research the company’s current projects and challenges in the defence technology space. Tailor your answers to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their goals, particularly in driving commercial performance and managing risk.
✨Build Rapport
During the interview, engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about their strategic direction and supplier relationships. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company culture is the right fit for you.
