Commercial Manager (Defence)

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a Commercial Manager to join a leading engineering and defence organisation, taking ownership of the full commercial lifecycle across complex UK defence contracts. This is a key position responsible for supporting business growth through bid leadership, contract negotiation, commercial governance and stakeholder management, ensuring successful delivery from initial opportunity through to contract closure. Reporting into the Commercial leadership team, you will work closely with senior stakeholders, project teams and customers, leading commercial activities across multiple programmes while providing guidance to junior members of the team. Lead the commercial aspects of the full route to contract, from bid qualification through to contract award. Take ownership of the commercial input into bids, including pricing strategy, proposals, terms and conditions and contractual documentation. Negotiate contracts, agreements and commercial arrangements with customers, ensuring alignment with business objectives. Manage contracts throughout their lifecycle, including amendments, deliverables, compliance, document control and contract closure. Identify commercial risks and opportunities, developing mitigation strategies alongside cross-functional teams. Ensure contractual compliance with applicable legislation, governance and defence industry regulations, including export control requirements where applicable. Act as the primary commercial interface for customers and internal stakeholders, resolving commercial issues and providing contractual guidance. Produce regular commercial reports, highlighting contract performance, risks and key business updates. Support the resolution of contractual disputes in collaboration with legal and wider business functions. Provide leadership and mentoring to junior commercial professionals whilst contributing to continuous improvement initiatives. Experience working within a commercial function in a defence or similarly regulated environment. Strong understanding of contract drafting, negotiation and commercial governance. Experience managing multiple contracts simultaneously within a fast-paced project environment. Proven commercial contract management experience across the full contract lifecycle. Experience leading commercial activities during competitive bid and proposal stages. Strong contract negotiation skills. Eligibility to successfully obtain the required security clearance. This position offers a lucrative benefits package, which includes but is not limited to: Annual company bonus. Excellent pension contribution scheme. Hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Enhanced parental leave package. Free on-site parking. Excellent career development and progression opportunities. If this role looks like your next challenge, please contact Keelan ASAP or apply via this advert! Please call the office or send an email to discuss other potential positions.