At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead negotiations with suppliers to unlock savings and translate data insights into actions.
- Company: Redbridge Council, a supportive and well-resourced public sector organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay rates, weekly payments, and free ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Great transport links and a friendly management team to support your growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by delivering cashable savings in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experienced Contract Manager with strong negotiation skills and public sector experience.
The predicted salary is between 47119 - 62500 £ per year.
Redbridge Council is seeking two interim Contract Managers for an initial period of up to six months, based in Ilford (IG1 1NN). The rate is £471.19–£625.00 per day, with a start date of 6 July 2026. These roles sit within a targeted, time-limited savings workstream. Analytical groundwork and data insights will already be in place — the emphasis is firmly on delivery and commercial intervention.
Responsibilities
- Leading commercial engagement and negotiation with suppliers to unlock savings
- Reviewing identified contracts and spend areas to challenge pricing, scope, and commercial terms
- Translating data insights into practical savings actions
- Working with service leads to validate opportunities and secure buy-in
- Maintaining a clear audit trail of commercial decisions in line with procurement regulations and governance requirements
Qualifications
- Strong track record as an experienced Contract Manager, ideally with public sector experience
- Demonstrable success delivering cashable savings through commercial negotiation
- Excellent negotiation and influencing skills
- Ability to work with data-led insights
- Strong stakeholder management
- Confidence to operate independently at pace in a delivery-focused environment
Benefits
- Excellent, competitive pay rates – paid weekly
- Supportive management team with approachable, experienced leaders
- A desirable location with great transport links
- A stable, well-resourced, and encouraging working environment
- Free ongoing CPD and training opportunities to enhance your skills
- Competitive rates of pay with prompt, reliable payments through our in-house payroll
- Enhanced DBS processing included
- Dedicated, friendly consultant offering tailored support
- Access to a wide range of opportunities in your chosen location
Contract Manager – Commercial Savings – #OR105926 in Ilford employer: Semester.co.uk
Redbridge Council is an excellent employer, offering competitive pay rates and a supportive management team that fosters a collaborative work culture. Located in Ilford, the council provides great transport links and a stable environment, along with free ongoing CPD and training opportunities to enhance your skills, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contract Manager – Commercial Savings – #OR105926 in Ilford
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Contract Manager – Commercial Savings – #OR105926 in Ilford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Semester.co.uk
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Semester.co.uk.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Semester.co.uk that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
