At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage supplier relationships and contracts to drive savings and ensure strong performance.
- 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 excellent career advancement opportunities in a fast-paced environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising supplier performance and driving value for shareholders.
- Qualifications: Strong negotiation skills and experience in managing complex supplier relationships.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Permanent position based in Reading with a hybrid work model of 2 days per week in the office.
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.
What you’ll be here to do:
- Manage all commercial aspects of your supplier portfolio, from strategy through contract close‑out.
- 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 in Reading 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 in Reading
✨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 MBNL and understanding their commercial strategies. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around supplier management and cost control. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the right fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! Since this role involves a lot of negotiating contracts and pricing, consider role-playing scenarios with a friend or mentor. This will help you feel more confident when it’s time to showcase your skills in real interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager in Reading
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 savings!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've managed complex contracts or improved supplier performance in the past. Let us know how you can help MBNL achieve better outcomes.
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 the complexities of supplier environments, so share any relevant experiences that highlight your expertise.
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, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at MBNL!
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 performance.
✨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 results.
✨Understand the Company’s Needs
Research MBNL and understand their business model, values, and current challenges. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, particularly in managing supplier performance and minimising risks.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, like contract disputes or performance issues with suppliers. Prepare structured responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your thought process and problem-solving skills.