Commercial Manager / Contracts Manager - Defence

Barclay Meade; Uxbridge; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading commercial consultancy is seeking a Commercial Manager to oversee contract processes in the aerospace and defence sector. Responsibilities include managing negotiations, bid pricing, and fostering client relationships. The ideal candidate has strong commercial management expertise and excellent negotiation skills, along with the ability to present effectively to stakeholders. This position offers a competitive salary of £50,000-£60,000, commensurate with experience, based in West London.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in commercial management and contract structures.
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace and defence commercial practices.
• Eligibility for baseline security clearance - BPSS level.

Responsibilities

• Manage commercial and contract processes across the sector.
• Oversee bid management and pricing activities.
• Take ownership of international contract negotiations.
• Present and communicate effectively with stakeholders.
• Maintain professional standards in commercial activities.
• Support strategic business objectives with insights.

Skills

Commercial management expertise

Contract negotiation processes

Aerospace and Defence contracts understanding

Customer liaison skills

Presentation skills

Attention to detail

Job description

Overview

The Commercial Manager / Contracts Manager role will be focused on account managing clients, encompassing contracting activities, creating business proposals, contributing to bids/tenders, deal making, and handling contract interpretation and challenges when issues arise. To provide continual guidance, assistance, and training to more junior colleagues. Support client negotiations to a successful conclusion, driving continued commercial success across the accounts.

Role

Role: Commercial Manager OR Contracts Manager

Location: West London

Type: Permanent position

Salary: £50,000-£60,000 (DOE) + benefits

Key responsibilities

• Manage commercial and contract processes across the aerospace and defence sector, including procurement practices, contract structures, and the drafting, review, and negotiation of contractual terms and conditions. Ensure all commercial activities are compliant with legal and regulatory frameworks, including export controls and shipping terms.
• Oversee bid management and pricing activities, applying expertise in pricing techniques, exchange rates, forward exchange deals, guarantees, and banking instruments to ensure competitive and profitable outcomes.
• Take ownership of international contract negotiations, across specific region customer contracts. Build strong customer relationships and act as the key commercial liaison, ensuring effective communication and the delivery of successful contractual outcomes.
• Present and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels, from internal leadership to external customers and suppliers. Deliver clear, persuasive presentations and reports to support business decision-making and strategy.
• Maintain the highest professional standards in all commercial activities, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and risk mitigation. Demonstrate a strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Support strategic business objectives by providing commercial insights and guidance that enhance decision-making, identify opportunities, and safeguard the organisation's interests.

Key skills and experience

• Demonstrated expertise in commercial management, contract structures, negotiation processes, and a thorough understanding of Aerospace OR Defence contracts.
• In-depth knowledge of commercial and contractual practices within the aerospace and defence sector, encompassing procurement procedures, bid management, pricing strategies, exchange rates and hedging, financial guarantees, banking instruments, export control regulations, and international shipping terms.
• Exceptional customer liaison and relationship-building skills.
• Highly proficient in delivering clear, confident presentations and communicating effectively at all levels.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and quality.
• Eligibility to gain baseline security clearance - BPSS level

To apply: candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK