Senior Commercial Lead

Great British Energy - Nuclear is an arm's length body of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, dedicated to supporting the development and deployment of new nuclear technologies in Great Britain. We play a crucial role in advancing nuclear new build, ensuring the UK’s energy security and achieving net‑zero carbon emissions. Great British Energy - Nuclear focuses on fostering innovation, facilitating investment, and coordinating efforts across the nuclear industry to build a resilient and sustainable energy future.

Great British Energy - Nuclear’s first step was to start the technology selection process for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in 2023. SMRs can potentially be quicker to deploy and less expensive to build than traditional nuclear power plants because they are smaller, have factory‑based modular manufacturing and more flexible deployment options. In June 2025, Great British Energy - Nuclear announced that Rolls‑Royce SMR had been selected as the preferred bidder to build the UK’s first SMRs, following a technology selection process that began in 2023.

Great British Energy - Nuclear is aiming to deliver fast, based on a supportive and collaborative culture which values equality and diversity and creates an inclusive workplace. Our activities will be driven by our values, which are:

• Trust - We prioritise safety, we act responsibly and with integrity.
• Collaboration - We work as a team; we value diversity and expertise.
• Challenge - We are curious and courageous in the way we think and act.
• Care - We are thoughtful, inclusive and respectful of others.
• Drive - We get things done and we make a difference.

This role can be based in either Warrington (Head Office) or London.

If you’re an experienced commercial leader who thrives in complex environments and enjoys working with brilliant people across multiple disciplines, this is a rare opportunity to help shape the commercial strategy behind the delivery of a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) power plant.

The role involves reporting to the Commercial Deputy Director, sitting within GBE‑N’s Commercial Directorate and leading procurement and commercial activity across a portfolio of major projects. You’ll be responsible for shaping packaging, procurement and commercial strategies, and overseeing delivery across the full commercial lifecycle – from strategy development through tendering to contract award and mobilisation.

You will lead and develop a small team, setting clear expectations and building capability through coaching and inclusive leadership. Work closely with senior stakeholders across Finance, PMO, Legal and Technical to deliver a seamless service. Ensure commercial governance, assurance and reporting are followed, aligned to policy and security requirements. Make sound decisions on high‑value commercial matters and ensure value for money.

What we’re looking for:

• Extensive experience with the NEC suite of contracts (including drafting and negotiation).
• Proven leadership in high‑pressure, multi‑disciplinary programmes (nuclear, construction, engineering or critical infrastructure).
• Extensive experience delivering commercial/procurement activity in line with Government processes (CAB/CO/HMT).
• Public sector procurement experience (PCR/Procurement Act) is desirable.