Job Description
Commercial Manager - Engineering & Defence
Location: Kidlington, UK
Our client, a leading organisation within the aviation and engineering sector, is hiring a commercially astute, results-driven Commercial Manager to join their high-performing Commercial Operations team. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in managing major UK Government and defence contracts within a regulated, contract-heavy environment.
What you'll be doing:
Lead the commercial and contractual management of significant defence and government contracts, ensuring compliance with regulations such as the Procurement Act 2023, DSPCR, and SSRO requirements.
Prepare and oversee contractual reporting, including SSRO-mandated reports, Contract Pricing Statements, and Final Price Adjustments.
Manage the full contract lifecycle, ensuring milestones, deliverables, and payment schedules are met, with a focus on allowable costs, contract profit rate, and cash flow.
Act as the primary commercial contact for Government/Defence clients, leading negotiations, amendments, change orders, and reporting.
Collaborate with internal teams including Sales, Engineering, Production, Maintenance, Supply Chain, Finance, and Programme Management to support contract success.
Contribute to process improvements around SSRO compliance and best practices.
What you'll bring:
Degree in Business, Law, or a related field.
Proven experience in contract management within defence, aerospace, or highly regulated engineering sectors.
Strong knowledge of UK Government/Defence contracting and SSRO frameworks.
Experience leading complex negotiations, financial analysis, and business case development.
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Organised, proactive, with strong problem-solving abilities and commercial risk awareness.
Proficiency in MS Office and Google Workspace.
Willingness to travel within the UK and internationally.
Desirable:
Experience managing contracts over 5m.
Knowledge of contract law and procurement processes.
Ability to develop automation tools for reporting.
Additional requirements:
Ability to obtain DBS and Security Clearance.
Compliance with Export Control regulations.
Proof of right to work in the UK.
Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package including private medical insurance, pension contributions, healthcare cash plan, and more. If you're ready to make an impact in a dynamic, regulated environment, we'd love to hear from you!
