At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic contract management and drive improvements across Digital, Data & Technology.
- Company: Join Natural Resources Wales, a forward-thinking organisation committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a strong commitment to professional development.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable resource management while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in contract management and team leadership; Welsh language skills are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
The role involves developing the Contract Management Support Service within Digital, Data & Technology (DDaT). You will provide effective leadership and direction to your team, demonstrating a high degree of commercial knowledge and awareness to internal customers and wider stakeholders.
You will advise senior managers on strategic contractual issues across a broad range of contract types, managing risks as required. Additionally, you will refine and implement improvement measures that increase business performance, working closely with other enablers to strengthen contract management across the organisation through a structured framework that complements existing procurement policies and procedures.
As a member of the Natural Resources Wales Management Team, you will play a key strategic role in supporting the organisation's transformation to deliver the sustainable management of natural resources. You will set the strategic direction for the function, evolve and progress the DDaT procurement framework, and contribute to the delivery of the NRW Commercial Strategy, promoting good governance and compliance throughout.
In this role, you will lead the end-to-end management of complex, high-value and strategic contracts, taking full accountability for their successful mobilisation, delivery, performance, and closeout. You will operate at the centre of contract activity, ensuring that supplier performance, financial outcomes, risk management, and governance requirements are effectively managed and aligned to business objectives.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing strategic leadership of the Contract Management Support Service within DDaT, shaping organisational policy, long-term direction, and commercial strategy.
- Acting as senior adviser to organisational leaders on complex and high-risk contractual matters across a diverse portfolio of contract types.
- Providing authoritative commercial insight to inform strategic decisions, anticipate and manage enterprise-level risks, and ensure contractual approaches align with organisational strategy, governance expectations, and public-sector obligations.
- Developing a deep knowledge of diverse business areas, their needs, and priorities, ensuring that the business understands the regularity and propriety implications alongside value for money.
- Leading major programmes of work to strengthen commercial governance, capability, and assurance across NRW.
- Managing the team that will lead on the DDaT procurement framework procedures, providing effective leadership and direction.
- Exercising delegated financial authority for the DDaT procurement framework, ensuring all contracts are compliant and deliver value for money.
- Undertaking health and safety duties and responsibilities appropriate to the post.
Qualifications and experience required:
- Full Corporate membership of The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (MCIPS) or equivalent.
- Extensive experience of working within a commercial environment, ideally in the public sector.
- Expert understanding and application of commercial concepts, practices, governance & techniques.
- Relevant experience of managing and developing teams.
- Substantial contract management or similar experience.
Welsh Language level requirements: Essential: Level A1 - Entry level. If you do not meet the A1 requirement, NRW offers a variety of learning options and staff support to help you meet these minimal requirements during your employment.
Additional Information: Successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS). This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. Natural Resources Wales welcomes applications from non-UK citizens who are eligible to apply under this route.
We are passionate about creating a diverse workforce and positively encourage applications from under-represented communities. We embrace equality of opportunity irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation.
Contract Director in London employer: Natural Resources Wales
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a flexible working environment tailored to individual needs. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, NRW provides generous benefits such as a Civil Service Pension Scheme, extensive annual leave, and dedicated support for health and wellbeing, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful work in a collaborative and innovative setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contract Director in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Natural Resources Wales, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Natural Resources Wales and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Contract Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Natural Resources Wales and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Natural Resources Wales
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Natural Resources Wales, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Natural Resources Wales.
