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- Tasks: Lead and manage commercial aspects of the Highways PFI contract with a dynamic team.
- Company: Join a local authority dedicated to improving community infrastructure on the Isle of Wight.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive hourly rate of £51.35 and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local transport while developing your leadership skills in a supportive setting.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience in finance, contract management, or related fields required.
- Other info: This role starts on 1st July 2025 for approximately 12 weeks, with potential for permanent placement.
Industry: Local Authority
Location: Newport, Isle of Wight
Hours: 37 hours per week
Days: Monday - Friday
Duration: starts 1st July 2025 for approx. 12 weeks (whilst recruiting permanently)
Duties:
- Provide leadership and direction for managing the commercial aspects of the Highways PFI contract.
- Work in collaboration with the Strategic Manager, Group Engineer, Transport Strategy Manager, and the Network Manager as part of a Senior Contract Management Team (SCMT) to maintain and develop an effective scrutiny framework.
- Performance manage the highways maintenance contractor service company and operational company including site inspections and audits; and communication with stakeholders internally and externally including elected members and Town / Parish Councils.
- Lead in the scrutiny of change events and issue contractual notices to the Service Provider.
- Review planned investment against Financial Model forecasts, challenge investment profiles and forecasts against network requirements.
Experience:
- Ability to demonstrate a thorough understanding of financial and commercial processes and contract management through experience in a similar position.
- A high level of understanding of how the council's role as a highway authority fits with its wider corporate strategic objectives and the interrelationships between the different directorates.
- An understanding of and experience of procurement and commercial processes market development that can be transferred to the services managed by the Highways PFI Team.
- Strong understanding of national legislation and local government policy and best practice regarding finance and commercial processes, contract and budget monitoring and setting.
- Experience and understanding of project and programme management.
- Able to demonstrate examples of inspiring and motivating staff and of managing their performance.
- Educated to degree level or equivalent standard/experience in a relevant subject and relevant professional qualification.
Salary: £51.35 per hour worked
If you have the experience required please email your CV, with the job title as the subject, to info@wprecruitment.co.uk
Please note that all adverts are listed for 30 days, however they may be filled before this period ends.
Contact Detail:
W P RECRUITMENT HR LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager - Highways and Transportation
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the highways and transportation sector. Attend local authority meetings or industry events to connect with key stakeholders and decision-makers who can provide insights into the role and potentially recommend you.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and opportunities facing the Newport area regarding highways management. Understanding local issues will help you demonstrate your commitment and knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in contract management and performance oversight. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed similar projects, as this will showcase your suitability for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the council's strategic objectives and how they align with the highways PFI contract. This will allow you to articulate how your skills and experience can contribute to achieving these goals during your discussions with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager - Highways and Transportation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Commercial Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in managing commercial aspects of contracts, particularly in highways and transportation.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience with financial and commercial processes, contract management, and your understanding of local government policies. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and manage teams effectively.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for the role. Mention how your skills align with the council's strategic objectives and your approach to stakeholder communication.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a managerial role.
How to prepare for a job interview at W P RECRUITMENT HR LTD
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the duties of a Commercial Manager in Highways and Transportation. Familiarise yourself with the specifics of managing PFI contracts and how they relate to local authority objectives.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss your experience with financial and commercial processes. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully managed budgets or contracts, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle the financial aspects of the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since the role involves leading a team, be ready to share examples of how you've inspired and motivated staff in previous positions. Discuss your approach to performance management and how you ensure team members meet their goals.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Questions
Given the importance of communication with various stakeholders, think about past experiences where you've effectively engaged with internal and external parties. Be ready to discuss how you would handle interactions with elected members and local councils.
