Commercial Contracts Manager

Cortech talent solutions; Bristol; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering and defence SME based in Bristol is seeking a Commercial Contracts Manager to lead contract negotiations and manage compliance within a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will have strong commercial experience, particularly in the defence sector, and will work closely with the senior leadership team to shape the commercial direction of the business. This role offers a salary between £60,000 and £80,000 plus a guaranteed bonus of £12,000 a year.

Benefits

Profit share bonus

Support for professional qualifications

Qualifications

• Proven commercial experience within the defence sector.
• Strong background in drafting, negotiating, and agreeing contracts.
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple contracts in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the negotiation of terms for commercial contracts.
• Manage contracts through their full lifecycle.
• Ensure all contracts comply with laws and policies.
• Secure new business opportunities.
• Identify potential commercial risks and develop strategies.
• Act as the main contact for contractual matters.
• Provide regular updates to the Directors.

Skills

Contract negotiation

Contract management

Compliance

Business development

Risk management

Stakeholder communication

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Job description

Role: Commercial Contracts Manager
Location: Bristol
Working Pattern: Onsite 4 days/week, Fridays from home
Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 + Guaranteed Bonus (£12,000/year)
Benefits: Profit share bonus, support for professional qualifications
Security Clearance: Must be a British Citizen or Dual UK national with British citizenship
Bonus Structure: A percentage of net profit is distributed to employees. For example, a Project Manager might receive 0.050%, equating to £12,000 this year.

About the Company

Join a fast-growing Bristol-based engineering and defence SME delivering complex manufacturing and mission‑critical services to clients including Rolls Royce and the MoD. Recent contract wins are fuelling expansion, and the team is seeking a Commercial Contracts Manager to help shape its next phase.

The Opportunity

This is a brand-new role that offers the right person the opportunity to make it their own. You'll need to wear many hats, covering everything from project management and procurement strategy to business development.
As part of our senior leadership team, you'll play a key role in shaping the commercial direction of the business and supporting the BD team on a variety of exciting projects. We're looking for someone with a can‑do attitude, entrepreneurial flair, and the drive to thrive in a fast‑paced SME environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Contract Negotiation: Lead the negotiation of terms and conditions for commercial contracts, ensuring alignment with company objectives and compliance requirements.
• Contract Management: Manage contracts through their full lifecycle including amendments, renewals, and closeouts ensuring all obligations are met.
• Compliance: Ensure all contracts comply with laws, regulations, company policies, and relevant defence standards.
• Business Winning: Be a key player in securing new business opportunities.
• Risk Management: Identify potential commercial risks and work with internal teams to develop mitigation strategies.
• Stakeholder Communication: Act as the main point of contact for contractual matters, advising internal stakeholders and liaising with clients and partners to resolve issues.
• Reporting: Provide regular updates and reports to the Directors on contract status, key risks, and other matters impacting the business.

What We're Looking For

• Proven commercial experience within the defence sector.
• Strong background in drafting, negotiating, and agreeing contracts and agreements.
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple contracts in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively across teams.
• Familiarity with MoD contracting structures and DEFCONs (preferred).