Contracts & Subcontracts Manager

Contracts & Subcontracts Manager 12 months Inside IR35 – 3 days p/week on site (Gloucester or Manchester) – SC Required

Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Contracts & Subcontracts Manager to lead commercial and contract execution strategies across key customer and subcontractor relationships. You will be responsible for managing all phases of the contract lifecycle, from initial business case and bid/no-bid decisions through to tendering, negotiation, programme execution, financial management, change control and contract close-out. The role will involve working closely with internal stakeholders, customers and strategic subcontractors to ensure contracts are commercially robust, effectively managed and delivered in line with business and customer requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Work collaboratively with colleagues across commercial, programme, engineering, finance, procurement and other business functions.

Develop, execute and manage a range of domestic and international contract types, including Cost Type, Incentive Type and Firm Fixed Price contracts.

Lead contract and commercial negotiations with customers and key subcontractors.

Develop and implement effective contracting strategies and negotiate associated agreements.

Provide comprehensive commercial and contractual support throughout the full programme lifecycle, from opportunity development and bidding through to delivery and contract close-out.

Identify commercial and contractual risks, contribute to wider programme risk management and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.

Manage new and existing contracts, including contract amendments, change control, flow-down requirements and associated commercial documentation.

Identify and resolve commercial issues, disputes and contractual challenges promptly and effectively.

Manage the financial aspects of contracts, including forecasting, milestone planning, invoicing and timely submission of contractual claims.

Act as the commercial point of contact for customers and key subcontractors, providing day-to-day commercial guidance and subject matter expertise.

Ensure the successful completion, close-out and archiving of contracts.

Identify and champion opportunities for process improvement and operational change.

Contribute to business capture and growth strategies by providing commercial recommendations that support both short- and long-term business performance.

Promote the value and contribution of the commercial function across the wider organisation.

Ensure contractual activities are conducted in accordance with applicable customer requirements, government regulations, public law and internal policies and procedures.

Essential Skills & Experience

Relevant degree or equivalent experience.

Experience in reviewing and drafting contractual documents

Experience in providing commercial and contract support for bidding on defence opportunities

Strong commercial awareness, business principles and governing law.

Experience of commercial risk management.

An ability to respond to tasks with tenacity and flexibility, whilst working cross functionally in a multi-disciplinary team.

Strong communicator and relationship builder with both internal and external customers.

An ability to remain calm under pressure and collaborate with others.

Positive, self-motivated and the ability to work independently.

A willingness and ability to travel as required.

Desirable Skills & Experience

Accreditation in Commercial and Supply Chain management.

Basic programme management skill set – Risk Management/Programme Gating/ Metrics.

Strong record of problem solving and dispute resolution.

Experience of working with international suppliers or customers.

Experience of Financial Management.

Familiarity with business process management tools (IPDS, SAP or similar) and the competitive bidding process