Commercial Software Specialist

Overview

On behalf of The Home Office, we are looking for a Commercial Software Specialist (Inside IR35) for an 11‑month contract working on a hybrid basis with an expectation of three days attendance in one of the following offices: London, Manchester, Liverpool or Solihull. Working from your closest office.

The first duty of Government is to protect the public. Since 1782, the Home Office has led work to keep the country safe from those who seek to do it harm; in doing so, we make a vital contribution to HM Government's plan for a stronger, fairer, outward‑looking and united Britain.

The Home Office covers three systems: Homeland Security, Public Safety and Borders, and Immigration and Citizenship. These systems work collaboratively to deliver our cross‑cutting priorities, whilst providing increasingly efficient and secure services for the public. These are difficult areas that can rapidly change in the global environment we work in – this makes us one of the most exciting and stimulating government departments in which to work.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement software sourcing strategies aligned with departmental objectives and government frameworks.
• Conduct market analysis, supplier engagement, and benchmarking.
• Lead competitive procurement exercises, including drafting ITTs, evaluating bids, and managing clarifications.
• Negotiate commercial terms, SLAs, and licensing agreements to ensure value for money and risk mitigation.
• Ensure adherence to Public Contracts Regulations 15, Procurement Act 2023, Cabinet Office guidelines, and Home Office policies.
• Collaborate with technical teams, programme leads, and legal advisors to deliver procurement outcomes.
• Identify and mitigate commercial, operational, and security risks.

Essential Requirements

• SC Clearance is essential. Must be willing and eligible to undergo checks; preference may be given to holders of active security clearance.
• Public sector experience.
• Experience in software or digital commercial roles.
• Proven track record in procurement.

Desirable

• CIPS / MCIPS.
• Experience of using Crown Commercial Service (CCS) frameworks.
• Experience of using Jaggaer.

Other Conditions

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.

Disability Confident

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, the Home Office guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases of a high volume of candidates with a disability who meet all the essential criteria, the best candidates from within that group will be interviewed. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply. In exceptional circumstances, desirable criteria may be considered in the shortlisting process, which may include holding active security clearance.

Armed Forces Covenant

The Home Office guarantees to interview veterans or spouses and partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases of a high volume of ex‑military candidates or military spouses and partners who meet all the essential criteria, the best candidates from within that group will be interviewed. In exceptional circumstances, desirable criteria may be considered in the shortlisting process, which may include holding active security clearance.

Off‑Payroll Working

In applying for this role, you acknowledge that it falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. Consequently, the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will differ.