Assistant Commercial Officer

Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA); Warrington; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A government department in the UK is seeking an Assistant Commercial Officer to support the Monitoring And Related Services team. This entry-level role involves assisting with supplier contracts, engaging with various stakeholders, and supporting procurement processes. Ideal for individuals looking to start their career in commercial/procurement. The department promotes continuous professional development and a customer-focused approach.

Benefits

Continuous professional development

Commitment to Disability Confident principles

Qualifications

• Starting career in commercial/procurement profession.
• Ability to assist in procurement processes.
• Understanding of legislation and best practices.

Responsibilities

• Assist in awarding and monitoring supplier contracts.
• Support project delivery and contract/supplier management.
• Engage with colleagues to build the commercial network.

Skills

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

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 will be a key support role for the team, which could also include leading your own procurements. This role is ideal for those starting their career in the commercial/procurement profession or looking to build on existing experience.

About Defra Group Commercial

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 within the Defra Network. The role involves assisting customers and commercial teams to deliver value effectively and innovatively, meeting organizational outcomes and Spending Review targets.

Key Responsibilities

1. Assist in awarding and monitoring supplier contracts in line with Defra's commercial policies and procedures, ensuring value for money and application of the Commercial DNA principles.
2. Review and interpret requests from internal customers, advise on commercial policies, and provide guidance on commercial issues and governance.
3. Engage with colleagues across the country to build the Commercial network internally and within the wider Defra network and Government Bodies.
4. Support the delivery of low- to medium-value environmental science projects, ensuring efficient procurement processes and enhanced customer service.
5. Support project delivery, procurements, and contract/supplier management, providing functional input to improve ways of working.
6. Explain Commercial guidance to operational teams to ensure compliance and facilitate contact with relevant Commercial team members.
7. Stay updated on legislation and best practices to inform priorities and ensure alignment.
8. Maintain effective relationships with operational teams and customers, understanding issues and providing effective responses.
9. Manage resources to meet business needs, using electronic sourcing and contract management tools effectively.
10. Contribute to the development of Defra sub-category and category plans, and develop market knowledge.
11. Provide administrative support to the team, ensuring efficient systems are in place.
12. Support contract delivery, ensuring sustainable impacts and opportunities are managed throughout the commercial lifecycle.
13. Advise on straightforward commercial issues, identify savings opportunities, and assist with complex procurements.
14. Research and analyze information to support sourcing strategies and business planning.
15. Participate in market engagement exercises and prepare tender documents.
16. Assist in publishing RFI documentation, managing supplier queries, and preparing evaluation materials.
17. Support the management of complex contracts and develop key supplier relationships.
18. Maintain a customer-focused approach, building effective partnerships to promote Commercial activity.
19. Participate in meetings with stakeholders and support commercial colleagues as needed.
20. Monitor and ensure accuracy of commercial and contract management data in IT systems.
21. Pursue continuous professional development to enhance commercial awareness and skills, supporting category planning.

Additional Information

This role is committed to Disability Confident principles, offering interviews to applicants with disabilities who meet minimum criteria. For more details, please visit our website.