Role Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Lead Commercial Manager to oversee the end-to-end management of contracts across both pre- and post-delivery phases. This pivotal role will support high-value bids, lead contract negotiations, and ensure effective contract delivery and compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities:
Pre-Contract Phase:
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Lead commercial input into bids, including pricing strategy, risk assessments, and contractual positioning.
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Manage the drafting, review, and negotiation of customer and supplier contracts, ensuring alignment with commercial, legal, and operational requirements.
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Work closely with bid teams to develop commercially robust tender responses that optimise risk and reward.
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Identify and mitigate contractual risks early in the bidding process.
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Ensure contract terms clearly define deliverables, scope, payment schedules, performance metrics, and change mechanisms.
Post-Contract Phase:
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Support mobilisation and handover into delivery teams, ensuring clear understanding of contractual obligations.
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Monitor contract performance, compliance, and risk throughout project execution.
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Manage contract variations, claims, disputes, and commercial negotiations in collaboration with legal and operational stakeholders.
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Oversee change control processes and ensure accurate contract administration and reporting.
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Lead lessons learned reviews and implement improvements to commercial processes and practices.
Governance & Stakeholder Engagement:
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Ensure commercial governance, contract compliance, and internal approvals are maintained throughout.
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Engage with senior stakeholders across legal, finance, operations, and supply chain to align contract strategy and execution.
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Provide expert commercial advice to internal teams on contractual matters and strategic risks.
Essential Skills & Experience:
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Proven experience in commercial contract management, including pre- and post-award stages.
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Strong bid and tendering experience in complex project environments.
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Excellent negotiation and contract drafting skills.
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In-depth knowledge of commercial risk, governance, and contract law principles.
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Experience in sectors such as infrastructure, engineering, defence, or construction preferred.
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Strong stakeholder management, analytical, and communication skills.
Qualifications:
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Degree in Law, Business, Quantity Surveying, or a related fields