Commercial Manager - 12 month FTC

Join Kainos and Shape the Future. At Kainos, we’re problem solvers, innovators, and collaborators - driven by a shared mission to create real impact. Whether we’re transforming digital services for millions, delivering cutting‑edge Workday solutions, or pushing the boundaries of technology, we do it together. We believe in a people‑first culture, where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly make a difference. Here, you’ll be part of a diverse, ambitious team that celebrates creativity and collaboration.

Ready to make your mark? Join us and be part of something bigger.

Asa Commercial Manager at Kainos, you will be joining a commercially focused, leading in‑house legal team. We are seeking a pragmatic, business‑focused and collaborative commercial lawyer. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in drafting, negotiating and advising on complex commercial contracts, with a proven ability to balance legal risk against commercial objectives. A strong understanding and experience of the UK Public Sector procurement and contracting environment is highly desirable. You will be flexible, forward‑thinking and solutions‑oriented, with the confidence to provide clear, practical advice that supports strategic goals. This role requires someone who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, demonstrates exceptional stakeholder engagement skills, and maintains a strong business focus while safeguarding compliance and governance. This is a hybrid role.

Responsibilities

• Act as a trusted advisor to the business, balancing legal obligations with commercial realities. Keep stakeholders engaged at all steps of the process and shift focus to align with business needs.
• Draft, review and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements, including customer, supplier and partner contracts, SaaS agreements, software licensing and professional services contracts.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across commercial, finance, delivery and leadership teams to enable strategic initiatives.
• Support bid teams on contractual terms for tenders and proposals.
• Identify and mitigate legal and commercial risks in new ventures and ongoing operations.
• Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of relevant legislation, regulatory changes and industry best practice.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of contract templates, processes and governance frameworks.
• Manage, supervise and support the up‑skilling and development of more junior members of the team as required.

Minimum Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor or Barrister with a minimum of 8–10 years relevant post‑qualification experience in a commercial contract role.
• Extensive experience in commercial contracts within the IT Sector.
• Articulate, analytical, pragmatic and enthusiastic.
• Excellent drafting, communication and negotiation skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability of building strong trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• A high attention to detail with excellent time management, organisational and planning skills.
• Ability to work to tight deadlines and make sensible decisions under pressure.
• Proven ability to manage and drive a high‑performing team.
• Demonstrated ability in managing, mentoring and coaching members of your team and wider community.

Desirable

• Strong understanding of the UK Public Sector procurement and contracting and subcontracting environment.
• Solid understanding of core legislative requirements such as GDPR, AI Act and Procurement Act.
• Experience with SaaS agreements.

Diversity and Inclusion

Embracing our differences. At Kainos, we believe in the power of diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that is as diverse as the world we live in, where everyone is valued, respected, and given an equal chance to thrive. We actively seek out talented people from all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other characteristic that makes them who they are. We also believe every candidate deserves a level playing field.

Our friendly talent acquisition team is here to support you every step of the way. If you require any accommodations or adjustments, we encourage you to reach out. We understand that everyone's journey is different, and by having a private conversation we can ensure that your recruitment process is tailored to your needs.