Commercial Manager

BAE Systems; Guildford; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Commercial Manager to lead negotiations and manage contracts within the Defence and National Security sectors. This role offers the opportunity to act as the primary customer interface, guiding proposals and contractual matters while collaborating with various functions to enhance commercial solutions. With a focus on inclusivity and diversity, this innovative firm supports flexible working arrangements and values a culture that empowers employees to reach their full potential. If you are self-motivated and resilient with excellent communication skills, this is the perfect opportunity to make a significant impact.

Benefits

Competitive pension

Employee share plans

Flexible discounts on health benefits

Green car scheme

Private health plans

Shopping discounts

Potential annual incentives

Qualifications

• Experience in contracting with Defence and Government agencies.
• Strong analytical skills to identify risks and opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Acting as the primary customer interface for proposals and contracts.
• Leading negotiations and managing contracts throughout their lifecycle.

Skills

Contracting with Defence and National Security sectors

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Understanding of legal issues

Stakeholder relationship management

Languages (Spanish, German, Arabic)

Job description

Location(s): UK, Europe & Africa: UK: Frimley, Gloucester, Leeds, London

Job Title: Commercial Manager

Location: Hybrid - based in London or Frimley preferred, with options for other UK office locations such as Gloucester, Manchester, or Leeds. Some UK and international travel may be required. We offer flexible working arrangements; please discuss options with your recruiter.

What you'll be doing

1. Acting as the primary customer interface for proposals and contractual matters.
2. Leading negotiations and influencing the negotiation plan and customer contracts with government and commercial organizations.
3. Providing guidance on commercial issues and governance, leading resolution of related issues.
4. Identifying risks and opportunities, devising mitigations, and obtaining relevant approvals.
5. Supporting proposal, contract, SOW, and change preparations.
6. Managing contracts throughout their lifecycle, including changes, claims, and disputes.
7. Handling contract close-out issues.
8. Engaging with other functions to enhance commercial solutions.
9. Collaborating with Procurement and Supply Management to manage supply chain risks.
10. Developing expertise in products and services, influencing price build-up, and recommending contingencies.

Your skills and experiences

• Experience contracting with sectors like Defence, National Security, and Government agencies.
• Knowledge of cross-border/international contracts.
• Experience with complex government and B2B deals, including bidding, drafting, and negotiation.
• Understanding legal issues, contract structures, and financial considerations.
• Familiarity with various contract types and selling models.
• Strong analytical skills to identify risks and opportunities and devise mitigations.
• Ability to interpret and challenge project P&L accounts.
• Experience managing contract issues, including disputes and claims.
• Self-motivated, resilient, with excellent communication skills and ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to build relationships with stakeholders at all levels and adapt to diverse cultural environments.
• Languages such as Spanish, German, or Arabic are desirable but not essential.

The International Commercial Team covers all stages of the bid and contract cycle, mainly supporting business in the EMEA region, with opportunities to work in other regions, exposing you to diverse cultures and practices.

Benefits

Competitive pension, employee share plans, flexible discounts on health and lifestyle benefits, green car scheme, private health plans, shopping discounts, and potential annual incentives.

Why BAE Systems?

Join a culture that values diversity, rewards merit, and empowers you to reach your potential. We are committed to inclusivity and welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups. We support candidates with disabilities or health conditions through reasonable adjustments. Many roles require security and export control clearances, with eligibility depending on nationality and residency history.