At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and contracts to drive value and savings.
- Company: Join MBNL, a leader in commercial management with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to influence senior stakeholders and drive continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by ensuring strong supplier performance and effective cost control.
- Qualifications: Experience in negotiating complex contracts and managing supplier relationships.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 ÂŁ per year.
The Commercial Manager plays a key role within MBNL’s Commercial directorate, responsible for managing supplier relationships and contracts across a defined portfolio. You’ll ensure robust commercial governance, effective supplier performance, and strong cost control across procurement and in‑life contract management. Operating at the interface between business, suppliers, and shareholders, you’ll provide expert commercial support that minimises risk, drives value, and enables successful delivery across MBNL programmes and projects.
Why this role matters: Strong commercial management underpins MBNL’s ability to deliver value for shareholders while operating efficiently in a complex, multi‑supplier environment. This role ensures contracts are well‑structured, suppliers are held to account, and commercial risks and costs are actively managed throughout the contract lifecycle. By embedding consistent commercial standards and proactive supplier management, you’ll help MBNL achieve better outcomes from its supply chain. This is a hybrid role with a minimum of 2 days per week in our Central Reading office.
What you’ll be here to do: You’ll manage all commercial aspects of your supplier portfolio, from strategy through contract close‑out. You’ll:
- Own supplier relationships and the full commercial lifecycle including selection, contracting, in‑life management, and exit
- Ensure all commercial activity complies with MBNL commercial policy, governance, and delegation frameworks
- Lead tenders, negotiations, and contract awards in line with shareholder and business requirements
- Negotiate pricing, identify savings opportunities, and drive opex efficiency
- Draft, negotiate, and manage framework and project contracts in partnership with Legal
- Manage contract change control, risk, and dispute resolution up to Director level
- Track supplier performance against contractual KPIs and drive corrective action where required
- Maintain accurate contract and pricing data within MBNL systems
- Support audits and provide clear commercial reporting and insight
- Engage and influence senior stakeholders, including shareholder forums
- Challenge the status quo and bring market insight to drive continuous improvement
Who we’re looking for: You’re a commercially astute professional with strong negotiation skills and experience managing complex supplier relationships. You’re comfortable operating independently, influencing stakeholders, and delivering results in fast‑paced environments. You’ll have:
- Experience negotiating complex framework or strategic contracts
- Strong supplier and contract management experience
- Good understanding of contract law and commercial risk
- The ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
If you also have the following, we’re especially interested in talking to you: Professional qualifications (e.g. MCIPS) and experience in JV or multi‑stakeholder environments.
Commercial Manager employer: Mobile Broadband Network Ltd (MBNL)
Contact Detail:
Mobile Broadband Network Ltd (MBNL) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Commercial Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its suppliers. Understand their commercial strategies and be ready to discuss how you can drive value and manage risks effectively. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re the one they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Whether it’s with friends or in mock interviews, being able to articulate your value and negotiate your worth is crucial. Remember, you’re not just selling yourself; you’re showcasing how you can enhance their supplier relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly shows your enthusiasm. Plus, it gives us a chance to see your application in the best light possible!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Commercial Manager role. Highlight your experience with supplier relationships, contract management, and any relevant achievements that showcase your negotiation skills. We want to see how you can drive value and manage risks!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for MBNL. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed contracts or improved supplier performance in the past. Let us know how you can challenge the status quo!
Showcase Your Commercial Acumen: In your application, don’t forget to demonstrate your understanding of commercial governance and risk management. We’re looking for someone who can navigate complex environments, so share any experiences that highlight your strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mobile Broadband Network Ltd (MBNL)
✨Know Your Commercial Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of commercial management principles, especially around supplier relationships and contract governance. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed contracts in the past and what strategies you've used to drive savings and efficiency.
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of complex negotiations you've led. Think about the challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This role requires strong negotiation skills, so be ready to demonstrate your ability to influence stakeholders and achieve favourable outcomes.
✨Understand the Company’s Needs
Research MBNL and understand their business model, values, and the specific challenges they face in a multi-supplier environment. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific situations related to supplier performance or contract disputes. Prepare by thinking through potential scenarios and how you would apply your expertise to resolve issues while minimising risk and driving value.