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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement and contract management in the UK Defence Sector, tackling exciting challenges.
- Company: Join Turner & Townsend, a global leader in delivering ambitious projects across 110 offices worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, a supportive environment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-functioning team making a real impact in the Defence sector.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement and contract management, preferably within Defence; degree or equivalent required.
- Other info: Must be a sole British Citizen and able to obtain security clearance.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
Please note: this role requires a UK national who can achieve and maintain UK MoD Security Clearance (SC). Existing clearance is desirable.
Role Overview and Responsibilities
Senior Commercial and Procurement Manager – Defence Sector. You will support our Defence clients across the full commercial lifecycle, delivering outcomes in both public and private markets.
- Procurement and Commercial Strategy
- End‑to‑End Contract Management
- Risk and Performance Management
- Negotiation and Continuous Improvement
- Governance and Compliance with internal policies and legal frameworks
- Business Analysis and Problem Solving
About you
Extensive commercial experience, a passion for delivering high‑quality outcomes, and the ability to thrive in a high‑functioning, collaborative environment.
Role Objectives
- Service Excellence – deploy market‑leading capability to optimise client satisfaction through knowledge, data and insight.
- Risk and Performance Management – identify, assess and mitigate project risks, implementing robust governance.
- Business Transformation and Stakeholder Engagement – support change management and efficiency initiatives.
- Leadership – deliver formal and informal leadership through coaching, line management, mentoring and knowledge sharing.
Required Experience and Skills
- Applied knowledge of procurement principles and practices, including experience with contract management and/or contract placement.
- Ability to recommend the most suitable commercial approach, assessing trade‑offs and risk mitigation.
- Understanding and application of programme, portfolio and project management tools.
- Ownership of tender evaluation decisions, applying commercial expertise and judgement.
- Development and commercial assurance of business cases, strategies and contracting approaches.
- Implementation of contract and supplier management strategies to maximise value, motivate performance and drive innovation.
- Proactive monitoring of supplier performance with continuous improvement focus.
- Experience leading teams and providing strategic direction.
- Regular interaction with clients on complex and contentious issues; ability to chair internal and external meetings involving senior stakeholders.
- Supplier Relationship Management and Category Management experience.
Qualifications
- Professional qualification(s) in Business, Procurement/Supply Chain Management, Law, Project Management or a similar discipline, or equivalent experience.
- Training or experience in Defence and Security Public Contracting Regulations (DSPCR), Public Contract Regulations (PCR) and/or the Procurement Act 2023.
Work Arrangements
Hybrid working is supported while recognising the need for on‑site presence 60% of the time, with flexibility based on client and business requirements.
Equal Opportunity
Turner & Townsend is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and actively encourage applications from all sectors of the community.
Security Clearance
Only a sole UK national who can achieve and maintain UK MoD Security Clearance (SC) is eligible for this role.
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Senior Commercial / Procurement Manager – Defence employer: TURNER & TOWNSEND
Contact Detail:
TURNER & TOWNSEND Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commercial / Procurement Manager – Defence
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and trends in the UK Defence Sector. Understanding current issues will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals already working in Defence procurement or commercial management. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to build connections that could provide insights or referrals for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing past experiences where you've successfully led teams or managed complex negotiations. This is crucial for a Senior role, so be prepared to share specific examples.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Turner & Townsend's recent projects and initiatives in the Defence sector. Being knowledgeable about their work will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how you can contribute to their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Commercial / Procurement Manager – Defence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in procurement and contract management, particularly within the Defence sector. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex negotiations and deliver value.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for the Defence sector. Mention how your skills align with the role's objectives and how you can contribute to Turner & Townsend's mission.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise skills such as stakeholder management, risk assessment, and supplier relationship management. Be specific about your experience with tools like Earned Value Management and contract management systems.
Showcase Continuous Learning: Mention any ongoing professional development, such as working towards CIPS level 4 or other relevant qualifications. This shows your commitment to growth and staying updated in the field of commercial management.
How to prepare for a job interview at TURNER & TOWNSEND
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the current challenges and trends within the UK Defence Sector. Research recent projects, government policies, and procurement processes to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Commercial Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous roles in Procurement and Contract Management, especially within Defence or similar sectors. Highlight specific examples where you successfully managed negotiations or implemented effective strategies.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills
Be ready to talk about your experience dealing with senior stakeholders and managing complex issues. Use examples that showcase your ability to navigate contentious situations and maintain strong relationships.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would approach them, particularly in terms of risk mitigation and contract management.
