Defence Subcontracts Lead | Supplier Strategy (12m)

Matchtech; Luton; On-site; GBP 63,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Matchtech in the United Kingdom is seeking an experienced Subcontracts Manager to join a high-performing team delivering complex programmes within a cutting-edge engineering and technology environment. Based in Luton, the role is a 12-month contract with a day rate of up to £570 Inside IR35.

You will lead procurement and subcontract management across major programmes, draft and negotiate contracts, monitor supplier performance, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure contractual

Qualifications

• Proven experience in procurement, commercial, contracts, or subcontract management.
• Background within defence, aerospace, engineering, manufacturing, rail, nuclear, or another highly regulated industry.
• Strong understanding of supplier management, contract negotiation, and commercial risk.
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Degree-qualified or professionally accredited (MCIPS desirable).
• Ability to operate independently while managing multiple priorities within a complex project environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead procurement and subcontract management activities across major programmes.
• Develop and implement sourcing and supplier engagement strategies.
• Identify and onboard suppliers with specialist or emerging capabilities.
• Draft, negotiate, and manage complex commercial agreements and contracts.
• Monitor supplier performance and ensure contractual compliance.
• Support forecasting, reporting, and commercial risk management activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure contractual requirements are effectively flowed down through the supply chain.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders.

Skills

Procurement & subcontract management

Defence/aerospace industry knowledge

Contract negotiation & commercial risk

Stakeholder management & influencing

Independent working across multiple PR

Education

Degree-qualified or MCIPS desirable

Job description

Matchtech in the United Kingdom is seeking an experienced Subcontracts Manager to join a high-performing team delivering complex programmes within a cutting-edge engineering and technology environment. Based in Luton, the role is a 12-month contract with a day rate of up to £570 Inside IR35.

You will lead procurement and subcontract management across major programmes, draft and negotiate contracts, monitor supplier performance, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure contractual