Commercial Business Partner

TN United Kingdom; Havant; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Commercial Business Partner to enhance its capital delivery programs. This pivotal role involves overseeing NEC contract management and ensuring projects deliver value and compliance. You will collaborate with project teams and strategic partners, driving performance and risk management while mentoring a high-performing commercial team. Enjoy a supportive environment that values diversity and offers flexible working arrangements. With a comprehensive benefits package, including generous leave and pension contributions, this opportunity is perfect for those looking to make a significant impact in the water sector.

Benefits

27 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Generous pension scheme up to 15%

Performance-related bonuses up to 6%

Enhanced family leave and pay options

Life assurance with 4x salary benefit

Private Medical Insurance

Employee Assistance Programme

Exclusive discounts at various retailers

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of NEC contracts and management processes.
• Extensive experience in contract negotiation and administration.

Responsibilities

• Support project teams to meet specifications, budgets, and quality standards.
• Administer NEC contracts, including change management and negotiations.
• Monitor contractor performance and manage cost forecasting.

Skills

NEC contract management

contract negotiation

cost management

analytical skills

stakeholder management

problem-solving

Tools

CEMAR

IFS

Job description

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We’re making a difference: Together, we can ensure that there is enough water for everyone, now and in the future.

Portsmouth Water is seeking a Commercial Business Partner to support its capital delivery programs through expert NEC contract and cost management. This key role involves providing commercial oversight, effective contract administration, and risk management to deliver high-quality, compliant, and value-for-money projects.

You will also contribute to building a high-performing commercial team that drives controls and maximizes value in collaboration with strategic contract partners and the wider supply chain. The commercial team, within the Asset Directorate, oversees NEC contract management, cost assurance, and quality control, leveraging internal expertise and partner capabilities.

What will you be doing?

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting project management teams to ensure projects meet specifications, budgets, deadlines, and quality standards.
• Administering NEC contracts, including drafting, negotiation, change management, and compensation events, following company policies.
• Assisting the Commercial Manager with complex negotiations and contract issues.
• Monitoring contractor performance and compliance.
• Managing cost forecasting, budget monitoring, and financial reporting.
• Leading contract compliance activities for major projects and advising on best practices.
• Identifying and mitigating commercial and contract risks, escalating issues as necessary.
• Providing management information to facilitate decision-making.
• Supporting project approvals and commercial reviews, identifying areas for value addition.
• Supporting project teams, supply chain partners, and stakeholders on commercial matters.
• Developing relationships with contractors and subcontractors.
• Mentoring and supporting the development of the wider Commercial Assurance team.
• Representing Commercial Assurance in project and programme meetings.
• Acting as a delegate for the Commercial Manager when required.

What do you need?

Skills, Qualifications & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of NEC contracts and management processes.
• Relevant experience in the commercial or procurement field.
• Extensive experience in contract negotiation, administration, and cost management.
• Excellent analytical, risk management, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with stakeholder management experience.
• Proficiency in contract management systems (e.g., CEMAR, IFS or equivalent).

We support flexible working arrangements and are committed to diversity and inclusion. Applicants must be eligible to work in the UK. Due to high application volumes, we may contact shortlisted candidates within 4 weeks.

What can Portsmouth Water offer you?

Join us and enjoy benefits such as:

• 27 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• A generous pension scheme contributing up to 15%.
• Performance-related bonuses up to 6% of salary.
• Enhanced family leave and pay options.
• Life assurance with a 4x salary benefit.
• Private Medical Insurance and Employee Assistance Programme.
• Exclusive discounts and perks at various retailers.