Commercial Manager / Contracts Manager - Defence

Matchtech; Welwyn; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Defence organisation in the UK is seeking a Commercial Manager / Contracts Manager. The successful candidate will manage customer relationships and lead contract negotiations in a regulated environment. Candidates should have experience in Defence or Aerospace and a strong understanding of commercial governance. This role includes hybrid working and competitive compensation with bonuses.

Benefits

20% bonus

Benefits

Qualifications

• Proven track record in commercial or contract management, ideally in Defence or Aerospace.
• Strong understanding of contract law and negotiation.
• Eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain relationships with customers.
• Act as the primary commercial contact for projects.
• Lead contract negotiations for compliance and advantage.

Skills

Contract management

Commercial governance

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Job description

Overview

Our client is a leading Defence organisation delivering cutting‑edge capability to the UK Ministry of Defence and international government customers. With a proud heritage and a strong focus on innovation, they provide full lifecycle support across their product range from concept and development through to in‑service support and disposal.

Role

Commercial Manager / Contracts Manager

Location

Hertfordshire/Bedfordshire (hybrid working, 2-3 days onsite p/week)

Type

Permanent position

Salary

Competitive (DOE) + 20% bonus + benefits

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with new and existing customers.
• Act as the primary commercial point of contact for your assigned projects, providing guidance on contractual matters and legal considerations.
• Lead contract negotiations, ensuring terms are compliant, balanced, and commercially advantageous.
• Support business-winning activities from bid preparation and cost validation through to proposal generation and contract award.
• Drive business strategy by identifying and maximising commercial opportunities.
• Provide effective leadership, coaching, and development within the commercial function.
• Report to senior management on contract performance, risk, and progress.
• Represent the Commercial team in internal reviews and customer meetings.
• Resolve complex commercial challenges through analytical thinking and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Promote commercial best practice and ensure adherence to company governance and procedures.

Key skills and experience

• Proven track record in commercial or contract management, ideally within Defence, Aerospace, or other highly regulated industries.
• Strong understanding of contract law, negotiation, and commercial governance.
• Confident in managing customer relationships and driving collaborative outcomes.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC level).

Keywords

Commercial Manager, Contracts Manager, Commercial Lead, Contract Negotiation, Defence, Defense, MOD, Aerospace, Commercial Contracts, Defcon, Defcons, IP, Intellectual Property, NDA, Non-disclosure Agreement, T & C, Terms & Condition, Bids, Bidding.

How to apply

To apply for this Commercial Manager / Contracts Manager / Contract Manager / Commercial Contracts Manager / Commercial Contract Manager role, candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK.