At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial activities and develop strategies for high-value defence programmes.
- Company: Join RBSL, a leading defence engineering company in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, annual bonuses, flexible working, and generous holiday.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for personal development and leadership roles.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence sector while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in business or related field; experience with defence customers preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
We now have an exciting opportunity for a Head of Commercial to join our team. As part of RBSL working for RBSL Commercial Director, having commercial responsibility for high value and strategically important Programme/s, but not limited to.
About RBSL
Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) is a defence engineering company based in the UK. We design, manufacture and support military vehicles used by the British Army and international customers.
What You Will Be Doing
- The Head of Commercial shall lead all commercial activities across the programmes of which they are assigned, ensuring contracts are profitable, compliant, and aligned with strategic objectives of the company.
- Develop and implement the company’s commercial strategy in line with business goals.
- Lead, mentor, and manage the commercial team.
- Support business development and bid activities.
- Lead negotiations for complex, high-value defence contracts.
- Ensure contracts reflect appropriate risk allocation and profitability.
- Oversee contract lifecycle management (bids execution closure).
- Own commercial inputs into pricing, cost models, and margin control.
- Identify and mitigate commercial risks across programmes.
- Ensure compliance with government regulations, export controls and company internal policies.
- Act as the primary commercial interface at the programme/ project level with customers and partners.
- Build relationships with government clients and key suppliers.
- Support dispute resolution and claims management.
- Ensure adherence to defence procurement rules and internal governance.
- Maintain audit readiness and regulatory compliance.
- Implement best practices in commercial processes.
What Qualifications You Should Have
- Essential: Degree in business, law, finance, engineering, or equivalent.
- Experience working with defence customers or large prime contractors.
- Experience of working in a multi-national, multi-organisational and corporate environment.
- Practical ‘hands on’ attitude with the ability to operate independently.
- Desirable: SSRO experience desirable.
- Export market experience.
- Knowledge of the UK MoD process and procedures.
What We Offer
RBSL strives to be an employer of choice and to foster a culture in which our employees are supported to build a career they can be proud. Through our contracts to deliver world-class products and support services, we offer great opportunities for personal development and career advancement via specialist technical roles, essential support functions, and broader leadership positions.
In addition, RBSL offer:
- Competitive salaries reviewed each year against market rates.
- Annual bonus incentive scheme for all employees.
- 37 hours over 4.5 days working week.
- Employer pension contributions up to 10%.
- Hybrid and flexible working.
- Life assurance cover.
- 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays.
- Holiday purchase scheme.
- Health cash plan.
- Salary sacrifice benefits including cycle to work and electric vehicles schemes.
- Access to high street and gym discounts and cashback.
- Long Service rewards with additional holiday.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity benefits.
- Free access to onsite gym.
Contact Person: Iwona Kurpiewska
Head of Commercial in Telford employer: Rheinmetall AG
Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Telford where innovation meets dedication in the defence sector. With a strong focus on employee development, RBSL provides competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous holiday allowances and pension contributions. Join us to be part of a team that values your growth and supports you in making a meaningful impact in the defence industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Commercial in Telford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the defence sector, attend industry events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build relationships that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching RBSL and understanding their projects. We recommend practising common interview questions and having your own questions ready to show your interest in the role and the company.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience in commercial strategy and contract management. We believe this can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Commercial in Telford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Commercial role. Highlight your experience with defence customers and 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 RBSL. Share specific examples of your past successes in commercial roles, especially in complex negotiations.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Head of Commercial, you'll be leading a team. Make sure to highlight your leadership experience in your application. We love to see how you've mentored others and driven successful outcomes!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rheinmetall AG
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the role of Head of Commercial and the specifics of RBSL. Familiarise yourself with their projects, values, and recent news. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in managing commercial activities, especially in defence or similar sectors. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to lead negotiations and manage contracts effectively, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare insightful questions about RBSL's commercial strategy and how they handle complex contracts. This shows that you're not just interested in the position but also in contributing to the company's success and understanding its challenges.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head of Commercial, you'll be leading a team. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully mentored others in the past. Highlight any experience you have in building relationships with clients and stakeholders, as this is key for the role.
