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Assistant Commercial Officer

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA)

Peterborough

On-site

GBP 30,000 - 40,000

Full time

2 days ago
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Job summary

A governmental department is seeking an Assistant Commercial Officer in Peterborough. This role focuses on supporting procurement processes and managing supplier contracts. Ideal candidates will have experience in procurement and possess strong communication skills. The position offers an excellent opportunity to develop a career in the commercial profession within the public sector, with a commitment to Disability Confident principles.

Benefits

Opportunities for professional development
Commitment to Disability Confident principles

Qualifications

  • Experience in procurement and contract management preferred.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

  • Support project delivery and procurement processes.
  • Maintain relationships with operational teams and customers.
  • Monitor supplier contracts and compliance.

Skills

Customer service orientation
Procurement knowledge
Contract management
Market research
Analytical skills

Education

Relevant degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Commercial management tools
Data management systems

Job description

Defra group Commercial is looking to appoint an Assistant Commercial Officer to the Monitoring And Related Services (MARS) commercial team within our Environmental Goods and Services spend category. This role offers a great opportunity to start or develop your career in the commercial/procurement profession.

Defra Group Commercial (DGC) is part of Defra, the central Government Department responsible for growing the rural economy, improving the environment, and safeguarding animal and plant health. DGC provides commercial services to organisations within the Defra Network.

This position involves assisting customers and commercial teams to deliver value effectively and innovatively, ensuring that customer outcomes and Spending Review targets are met. Responsibilities include awarding and monitoring supplier contracts in line with Defra policies, delivering value for money, and applying the Commercial DNA principles.

The role requires a proactive approach to customer service, reviewing requests from internal customers, advising on commercial policies, and engaging with colleagues across the country to build the Commercial network.

The Environmental Goods and Services category manages numerous scientific commercial agreements, mainly low- to medium-value projects. The role is pivotal in ensuring efficient procurement processes and excellent customer service.

The Assistant Commercial Officer will report to a Senior Category / Commercial Officer (SEO) and will:

  1. Support project delivery, procurements, and contract management, providing specialist input to improve processes and efficiency.
  2. Explain Commercial guidance to operational teams to ensure compliance and facilitate support from the Commercial team.
  3. Stay updated on legislation and best practices to inform priorities.
  4. Maintain effective relationships with operational teams and customers.
  5. Support team members to deliver results on time, within quality standards and budget.
  6. Manage resources effectively, including sourcing and contract management tools.
  7. Contribute to category plans and develop market knowledge.
  8. Provide administrative support to the team, ensuring efficient systems.
  9. Support contract delivery, identifying sustainable impacts and opportunities.

The post-holder will also be responsible for:

  1. Providing day-to-day advice on commercial issues and governance.
  2. Assisting with complex procurements and research activities.
  3. Supporting market engagement exercises and preparing tender documents.
  4. Managing supplier relationships and complex contracts.
  5. Building strong customer relationships and participating in stakeholder meetings.
  6. Monitoring and maintaining accurate data in commercial systems.
  7. Engaging in continuous professional development to enhance skills and contribute to category planning.

This role is committed to Disability Confident principles, offering interviews to applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria.

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