At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial and contract management for critical infrastructure projects across the south of England.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in energy transition and infrastructure development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, health perks, and family support benefits.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on energy projects that shape the future.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial management and strong knowledge of NEC contracts required.
The predicted salary is between 51600 - 77400 £ per year.
Salary: 51,600 - 77,400 + car /car allowance - if applicable + performance-related bonus + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Permanent | Full Time | Flexible First options available
The role involves reporting to the Senior Contract Manager within Procurement & Commercial for SEPD Services. This is a senior commercial role supporting one of the most strategically important and fast-growing areas of the business.
You will lead commercial and contract management activity across a portfolio of Customer Operations and Large Connections projects, ensuring robust procurement strategies, contractual governance and supplier partnerships are in place to support the safe, efficient and timely delivery of critical infrastructure investment.
This is a highly visible role, working closely with stakeholders across Operations, Procurement, Commercial, Finance, Legal and our external supply chain. You will provide commercial leadership, challenge and assurance, helping to manage cost, risk, change and supplier performance in an environment of increasing customer demand and network growth.
You will:
- Provide commercial advice, challenge and support to project teams, ensuring effective cost, risk, change and contract management controls.
- Develop and implement procurement and contracting strategies that deliver value, mitigate risk and support successful project outcomes.
- Manage NEC and other construction and engineering contracts throughout their lifecycle, from strategy development and contract award through to change management, claims, payment certification and final account settlement.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and suppliers to drive performance, resolve commercial issues and support delivery against programme, budget and customer commitments.
- Deliver clear reporting and commercial insight, identifying risks, opportunities and areas for improvement.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of commercial processes, contract management standards and supplier engagement across the wider business.
- Review Applications for Payment and prepare Payment Notices and Final Accounts in line with contractual requirements.
You have:
- Significant experience leading commercial and contract management activities across complex project portfolios.
- Strong knowledge and practical application of NEC and other construction or engineering contracts throughout the full contract lifecycle.
- Experience managing commercial risk, change control, claims, payments and final account processes.
- Strong commercial judgement, analytical capability and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
This is an opportunity to take on a senior commercial role in a fast-growing and highly visible part of the business. You will be joining a commercially focused team that has grown in confidence and capability, working in a supportive and collaborative way while maintaining the constructive challenge needed to deliver strong commercial outcomes, influence supplier performance and play a key role in improving how we deliver complex work across the south of England.
About SSE: SSE’s purpose is to provide energy needed today while building a better world of energy for tomorrow. We do this by developing, building, operating and investing in electricity infrastructure and businesses needed in the energy transition. Our Procurement & Commercial teams help us get the best service and value from partners, while ensuring suppliers meet compliance, contractual and business obligations.
SSEN Distribution, part of the wider SSE group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and energy experts keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low carbon future.
Flexible benefits to fit your life include discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships, wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service, interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme, as well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online.
Contracts Manager, Senior Manager in Southampton employer: Scottish and Southern Energy
SSE Smart Buildings is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment for BMS Commissioning Engineers in London and the South East. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we provide flexible benefits, including private healthcare discounts, a Cycle to Work scheme, and generous family entitlements. Our inclusive culture fosters growth and development, ensuring that every team member can thrive while contributing to innovative projects that support a zero-carbon future.
Contact Details:
Scottish and Southern Energy Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager, Senior Manager in Southampton
✨Get Savvy with Industry Perks
Join procurement and purchasing forums or groups where pros hang out, like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply). They'll share the inside scoop on job openings that might not show up on traditional job boards!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Consider creating a portfolio that outlines your achievements in procurement, like cost-saving initiatives or supplier management strategies. Having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart when applying to companies like Scottish and Southern Energy.
✨Tap into Your Network
Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in procurement—follow relevant hashtags, join groups, and engage in discussions. This is a great way to get noticed by potential employers before they even post a job!
✨Keep Your Eyes on Job Boards
With full-time positions, timing can be everything. Set alerts on job boards specifically for procurement roles. Don't wait for a job posting to close; apply through our website as soon as you see a fit—being proactive can give you the edge!
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager, Senior Manager in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Procurement Know-How:When you're crafting your CV, make sure to highlight any procurement-specific skills you've got. Talk about your experience with supplier negotiations, cost analysis, or inventory management. If you’ve used software like SAP or Oracle, don’t forget to mention that too – it shows you know your way around the tech side of things!
Quantify Your Achievements:In procurement, numbers matter. Use your CV and cover letter to showcase any quantifiable achievements you've made in reducing costs or improving efficiencies. For example, mentioning that you helped save 20% on purchasing costs last year is way more impressive than just saying you managed the budget!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Scottish and Southern Energy:Your cover letter should read like you’re chatting directly to Scottish and Southern Energy. Research the company’s procurement strategy, mention how your skills align with their goals, and share your enthusiasm for contributing to their success. This personal touch can really set you apart from the crowd!
Professional Certs Can Go a Long Way:If you've got any procurement-related certifications, such as CIPS or APICS, make sure they're front and centre on your CV. These qualifications show you're serious about your career in procurement and are committed to continuous learning. It’s a great way to signal your expertise and dedication to potential employers like Scottish and Southern Energy.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish and Southern Energy
✨Show Off Your Negotiation Skills
In procurement, strong negotiation skills are key. Be ready to share examples of past negotiations where you've successfully saved costs or improved supplier terms. We want to hear how you approached those situations and the strategies you used to achieve positive outcomes!
✨Know Your Tools
Make sure you’re familiar with procurement software and tools commonly used in the industry, such as SAP Ariba or Coupa. Come prepared to discuss any experiences you've had with these tools or similar platforms, as we need someone who can hit the ground running at Scottish and Southern Energy!
✨Understand Market Trends
As a procurement professional, being aware of market trends can set you apart. Brush up on recent developments in supply chain management or procurement best practices and think about how they could impact your role at Scottish and Southern Energy. Bringing a current perspective will show your enthusiasm for the industry.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Player Attitude
A full-time position means you'll be working closely with various teams. Be prepared to discuss how you collaborate with others, manage conflicts, and build relationships with stakeholders. Sharing anecdotes about past teamwork experiences will highlight your ability to fit into Scottish and Southern Energy's culture.
