At a Glance
- Tasks: Support technology procurement and contract management to improve services for residents.
- Company: Join the ambitious London Borough of Newham, committed to inclusive and high-quality services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a team transforming how technology supports community services.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement or contract management and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 49056 - 52194 £ per year.
Salary: PO4 £49,056 - £52,194* (pending 2026 pay award)
Fixed Term Contract: 12 months
Location: Hybrid working / Newham Dockside base office location
About Us
Newham is one of London’s most ambitious and diverse boroughs, with a clear commitment to delivering inclusive, high-quality services that improve residents’ lives. We are transforming how we operate, putting people at the heart of everything we do, and using digital, data and technology to drive better outcomes for residents, staff and businesses. The Digital, Data and Technology Directorate plays a central role in enabling this transformation. We support services across the Council by providing the technology, systems, commercial support and supplier relationships needed to deliver modern, reliable and secure services. The DDaT Commercial function supports the effective procurement, contract management, supplier management and financial oversight of technology products and services. The team works closely with technical teams, service owners, suppliers, procurement, finance and legal colleagues to ensure that contracts are compliant, well managed and deliver value for money.
About the Job
As DDaT Commercial Officer, you will support the management of technology procurement, contracts, suppliers, purchasing activity and service catalogue information across the DDaT service. You will provide advice and guidance to DDaT colleagues on procurement routes, supplier selection, tendering, contract management, purchasing and budget management. You will help ensure that procurement activity is compliant with Council procedures, Contract Standing Orders, financial policies and relevant legislation. You will support and manage procurement activity, including preparing business cases, tender documents, evaluation criteria and supplier assessments. You will also work with colleagues and suppliers to monitor contract performance, resolve issues, identify risks and support improvements in service delivery. The role will include supporting contract renewals, licence management, purchasing processes, supplier review meetings, financial monitoring and reporting. You will help maintain accurate contract, purchasing and service catalogue information so that DDaT has a clear, reliable view of its commercial commitments and future pipeline. This is a varied and important role in a busy DDaT environment, supporting the Council to manage technology contracts effectively, reduce risk, improve governance and achieve value for money.
About You
You will have experience of working in a procurement, commercial, contract management, supplier management, finance, purchasing or technology service environment. You will be organised, analytical and confident working with a range of stakeholders. You will be able to manage information accurately, identify risks and issues, and support the resolution of complex problems.
- You Will Have experience supporting procurement, purchasing or contract management activity
- Understand the importance of compliance, governance, financial control and value for money
- Be able to work with suppliers and internal stakeholders to monitor performance and resolve issues
- Be confident reviewing information, maintaining records and producing clear updates or reports
- Have good communication skills and be able to explain commercial information to both technical and non-technical colleagues
- Be able to manage competing priorities in a busy service environment
You will also bring a collaborative and proactive approach, with the ability to build positive relationships across DDaT, procurement, finance, legal, service teams and suppliers. Most importantly, you will be motivated by helping the Council manage its technology services well, supporting better outcomes for residents and staff through effective commercial management.
For questions about the job, please contact emma.chard@newham.gov.uk
Closing date: 28/08/2026
Additional Information
We are committed to creating an inclusive, anti-racist environment for all. When you apply for a job at Newham, your application is considered on its merits regardless of your age, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender identity or sexual orientation. If you share our vision and values, and you bring the experience and skills we need, that's all that matters to us. The London Borough of Newham has important responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you are appointed to a job that involves working with these groups, you may be subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Please attach your supporting statement, explaining in no more than x2 A4 sides why and how you meet the criteria for this role. We practice anonymised recruitment. Please ensure that you remove all personal information from any documents that you upload.
DDaT Commercial Officer employer: London Borough of Newham
The London Borough of Newham is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Senior Educational Psychologists. With a strong commitment to professional development and flexible working arrangements, employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in East London. The competitive salary and additional allowances further enhance the appeal of this rewarding role.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land DDaT Commercial Officer
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace DDaT Commercial Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Newham
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from London Borough of Newham.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show London Borough of Newham that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
