Commercial Lead – IT and Digital

JR United Kingdom; Basingstoke; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is looking for a Commercial Lead in IT and Digital to drive innovative digital strategies. This role encompasses overseeing procurement, managing contracts, and enhancing supplier relationships while ensuring alignment with strategic objectives. The successful candidate will have significant experience in public service settings and possess excellent communication skills.

Benefits

30 days annual leave entitlement

Qualifications

• At least 5 years in IT purchasing or contract negotiation.
• Extensive background in IT procurement and contract management.
• Proficiency in procurement legislation and commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Leading the development of Digital & IT Service Plan and Category Strategy.
• Managing procurement processes and contract negotiations.
• Serving as the subject matter expert for IT commissioning.

Skills

IT procurement

Contract management

Commercial leadership

Supplier relationship management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

CIPS Level 3 qualification or equivalent

Job description

Position: Commercial Lead – IT and Digital

Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid Working)

Type: Permanent

30 days annual leave entitlement

Initially, 4 days a week in the office, reducing to 1 day a week. Long-term, post-probation, twice a month in the office, subject to service/corporate needs.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Lead – IT and Digital to develop and deliver innovative, value-driven digital strategies within a shared service environment supporting multiple partners.

This role oversees all aspects of Digital & IT procurement, contract management, supplier relationships, and commissioning governance, ensuring digital investments align with strategic objectives and maximize value and performance.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Leading the development and implementation of a comprehensive Digital & IT Service Plan and Category Strategy.
• Managing complex procurement processes and contract negotiations across various IT and digital services.
• Serving as the subject matter expert for IT commissioning and supplier engagement.
• Ensuring digital contracts and services deliver value for money, measurable impact, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to shape market engagement strategies and understand needs and opportunities.
• Providing mentorship and support to colleagues, fostering commercial and commissioning capabilities.
• Acting as the Deputy for the Commercial Manager – Digital & IT as needed.

Skills & Experience

• Extensive background in IT procurement, contract management, and commercial leadership, preferably within a complex or public service setting.
• Proficiency in procurement legislation, frameworks, and best practices in commissioning.
• Strong commercial acumen with expertise in IT supplier markets, risk assessment, and value assurance.
• Experience managing supplier relationships and contract performance.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with a proactive and collaborative approach.
• CIPS Level 3 qualification or equivalent experience, with at least 5 years in IT purchasing or contract negotiation.