Senior Commercial Lead, Tech Procurement (Public Sector)

Southwark Council; Greater London; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Southwark Council seeks a senior Commercial Leader to shape procurement and supplier governance across its Digital and Resident Experience directorate. You will drive sourcing strategies, manage strategic suppliers and ensure value from technology licensing and contracts.

The role collaborates with Finance, Legal and Procurement to mitigate risk, optimise spend and build a high-performing commercial team in a London-based environment.

Qualifications

• Experience leading procurement, contract management and supplier relationship activities within a large and complex organisation.
• Strong knowledge of public sector procurement legislation, commercial governance and contract management best practice.
• Experience managing technology suppliers, contracts, software licensing or comparable commercial portfolios.
• The ability to build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders and influence strategic decisions.
• Strong commercial judgement, balancing risk, value for money and organisational priorities.
• Experience leading teams through change and developing high-performing, collaborative cultures.

Responsibilities

• Lead the commercial function within Southwark's Digital and Resident Experience directorate, providing strategic leadership across procurement, supplier management, licensing and contract governance.
• Support the council's Vision 360 transformation programme, helping establish the commercial capability, governance and supplier management arrangements required as services transition from the current shared service model.
• Develop sourcing strategies and lead technology procurements that deliver value, innovation and long-term benefits for residents and colleagues.
• Manage strategic supplier relationships and commercial contracts, ensuring strong performance, accountability and continuous improvement.
• Oversee software licensing and technology asset management, helping maximise value from technology investments across their lifecycle.
• Partner with colleagues across Finance, Procurement and Legal Services to manage commercial risk, support decision-making and strengthen governance.
• Lead and develop a specialist commercial team, building capability and creating a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement.

Skills

Procurement leadership

Supplier management

Contract governance

Vendor relationships

Commercial judgement

Change management

Job description

Southwark Council seeks a senior Commercial Leader to shape procurement and supplier governance across its Digital and Resident Experience directorate. You will drive sourcing strategies, manage strategic suppliers and ensure value from technology licensing and contracts.

The role collaborates with Finance, Legal and Procurement to mitigate risk, optimise spend and build a high-performing commercial team in a London-based environment.