At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic commercial team and oversee contract performance in the defence sector.
- Company: Join a leading company with a focus on innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Other info: Access to development opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a vital industry while enjoying work-life balance.
- Qualifications: Proven senior-level experience in commercial roles within the defence/security market.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 95000 £ per year.
Role Overview: Head of Commercial reports to the Finance & Commercial Director. Responsible for the leadership, oversight and performance of SEA’s team of commercial professionals, and commercial activities across the full lifecycle of SEA’s contracts. Could be based at any of our sites in Barnstaple, Bristol or Beckington, with flexible working allowing 2‑3 days a week onsite. Salary up to £95k, depending on experience.
Responsibilities:
- Understanding and advising on the commercial, contractual, and risk structures and ensuring that all obligations are understood and implemented by project teams.
- Leading the commercial team, setting and demonstrating the standard of excellence required and ensuring adherence to these standards.
- Line‑managing the team, delivering actions and outcomes.
- Developing commercially effective responses to customer requirements, managing negotiations, amendments and variations to contract documentation, ensuring that risks are identified and understood.
Qualifications:
- Extensive and proven senior‑level commercial experience within the defence/security market with a track record of working on contracts up to £25m in value.
- Thorough understanding of UK Government and UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) planning, procurement and tendering.
- Relevant professional qualifications and/or a degree in a relevant discipline are advantageous.
Benefits:
- Work life balance
- Hybrid/flexible working arrangements
- 25 days’ annual leave, plus buy and sell
- Up to 16 days flexi leave accrual
- Half day Fridays
- Reservists in the Armed Forces receive special paid leave
- Family & wellbeing
- Private medical health insurance & Employee Assistance Program
- All Staff Bonus
- Group Pension Plan of up to 7% employer contribution
- Cycle to work scheme
- Wellbeing Centre
- Sports & Social activities
- Employee Discounts portal – online and in‑store discounts, travel savings
- Life assurance policy
- Publication and recruitment bonus rewards
- Development opportunities, including LinkedIn learning
- Facilities & resources
- Electric vehicle charging points at all sites
- Private seated lunch areas
- Onsite bistro (Barnstaple office) and free hot and cold beverages
- Onsite showers and toiletries provision
- Free onsite parking
Head of Commercial – Bristol employer: Recruit4Mum
As an employer, SEA offers a dynamic and supportive work environment in Bristol, where the Head of Commercial role provides not only competitive remuneration but also a strong emphasis on work-life balance with flexible working arrangements. Employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, a comprehensive benefits package including private medical insurance and generous leave policies, and a culture that prioritises wellbeing and team collaboration, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Commercial – Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence and security sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their contracts, values, and recent projects. We want you to walk in there with confidence, ready to discuss how your extensive experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! When discussing your past roles, highlight how you’ve successfully managed teams and delivered results. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and drive excellence in commercial activities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our hiring process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Commercial – Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Commercial role. Highlight your senior-level commercial experience, especially in the defence/security market, and showcase any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
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 experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead a commercial team and manage contracts effectively. Let us know what excites you about working with us!
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use numbers and examples to illustrate how you've successfully managed contracts or led teams in the past. We love seeing tangible results!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Recruit4Mum
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the defence and security market, especially regarding UK Government and MOD procurement processes. Brush up on your knowledge of contracts worth up to £25m, as this will be crucial in demonstrating your expertise during the interview.
✨Show Leadership Skills
As a Head of Commercial, you'll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on how you set standards of excellence and ensured adherence to them. This will show that you're ready to take on the responsibilities of the role.
✨Be Ready for Negotiation Scenarios
Expect questions about managing negotiations and contract amendments. Think of specific instances where you've navigated complex negotiations, identified risks, and developed effective responses to customer requirements. This will highlight your practical experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's commercial strategies and team dynamics. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company culture aligns with your values and work style.
