Senior Commercial Manager (Contract)

• Location: Bristol
• Contract Length: Approx. 6 months
• Start Date: 1 October 2026
• Working Hours: Standard office hours (no shift work)
• Working Pattern: Hybrid, with multiple onsite days per week in Bristol
• Security Clearance: BPSS and SC required (not essential from day one)

Role Overview

An experienced Senior Commercial Manager is required to support a portfolio of defence contracts, competitive bids, proposals, and growth opportunities within a digital-focused environment. The role will lead pre-signature commercial activities, including bid support, commercial strategy development, contract negotiation, and stakeholder engagement, while also providing wider contract management support where required.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead commercial activities across bids, proposals, frameworks, and contract negotiations.
• Develop commercial strategies that support business growth while managing risk.
• Review, draft, interpret, and negotiate complex contractual terms and conditions.
• Support bid governance, pricing activities, commercial reviews, and risk assessments.
• Build and maintain strong customer and stakeholder relationships.
• Ensure compliance with procurement regulations, contractual obligations, and internal governance processes.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong UK defence contracting background with a solid understanding of procurement regulations and commercial governance.
• Excellent stakeholder management and customer relationship skills.
• Strong negotiation, contract management, and commercial leadership capability.
• Experience supporting competitive tenders, bids, and proposals.
• Knowledge of Single Source Contract Regulations (SSCR) and government procurement frameworks.
• Ability to work effectively within complex, fast-paced, matrix organisations.

Preferred Experience

• 7+ years' experience in commercial or contract management roles.
• Defence sector experience supporting complex programmes and customer engagements.
• Strong commercial acumen, risk management capability, and analytical skills.