SDA Commercial Manager

The Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) is a part of the Ministry of Defence responsible for the procurement, in-service support, and disposal of the UK’s nuclear submarines. Our work is of unparalleled strategic importance nationally and internationally, ensuring the security of the UK’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent, and delivering some of the most technically complex programmes in defence. 

As part of a diverse and inclusive workforce, our team will find a community to belong to – whether that’s alongside project teams with a shared vision or as part of an employee network of like-minded individuals. We believe that, by celebrating different backgrounds and different perspectives, together we’ll achieve the extraordinary.

You will be providing support and leadership to a small Commercial team managing a portfolio covering a number of contracts within HMNB Clyde. As a Commercial Manager you will have the opportunity to lead and manage a range of commercial activities, including high profile and complex contracts across the Naval Base sites, working closely with Senior Management, as well as personally leading on specific work-streams and supporting cross functional teams. You will be tasked to deliver maximum value via contract management activities, influencing commercial strategy and addressing the consequences of any changes that occur. 

The primary duty station for this role will be HMNB Clyde, and in line with our smarter working policy, you will be required on site as agreed, and will enjoy significant flexible working options. As such, this opportunity would be perfect for someone based in Glasgow or the surrounding areas, who is willing to commute to Faslane on a regular basis.

Please note, due to the nature of work, this vacancy is Reserved (open to UK Nationals only) and will require the successful candidate to attain SC (Security Clearance).

We strongly recommend tailoring your CV in line with our CV guidance before applying, with specific sections to highlight Key Achievements, Relevant Experience, and Applied Skills & Knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead contract management activities and ensure all parties are held accountable to meet their contracted obligations to ensure effective delivery of contract requirements.
• Drafting the strategy plans, commercial management plans and facilitating/delivering recommendations for action to Senior Leadership, ensuring all contracts adhere to relevant procurement regulations and Government.
• Leading Commercial negotiations to a maximum delegation of £10M in accordance with set guidelines outlined in the individual’s delegation letter and MOD policy and support negotiations above delegation when required.
• Communicate with a range of internal and external stakeholders including Senior Leadership, suppliers and Subject Matter Experts.
• Lead and manage staff where applicable. Advising, coaching and developing Commercial Assistants and Commercial Officers as required.
• Conduct assurance and due diligence of commercial activity within own area of responsibility in order to provide confidence in commercial outcomes. Participate in Peer Reviews as required.
• Contribute to wider Commercial functional and business initiatives as required.

To be successful with your application, you’ll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Relevant contract sourcing and/or contract management experience.
• Experience of managing, leading and developing others.
• Proficient IT skills including Microsoft Office or equivalent and ability to use IT systems and programmes 

If not already held, successful candidates will be supported to undertake the required training below:

• Chartered Institute of Purchasing Supply (CIPS) level 4/or equivalent within one year of appointment.
• MOD Practitioner Level Accreditation Panel assessment when agreed by line management.
• Leadership development and defence commercial professionalism courses to develop commercial skills and ensure on-going Continuing Professional Development.

In addition to the responsibilities above, the following technical competences and behaviours will be assessed at interview:

• Contract Management
• Tender and Bid Process
• Managing a Quality Service
• Communicating and Influencing

• 25 days’ annual leave +1 day a year up to 30 days, 8 bank holidays and a day off for the King’s birthday
• Flexible and hybrid working wherever possible, to support your work-life balance (though some attendance to the stated site is required)
• Market-leading employer pension contribution of around 27%
• Annual performance-based bonus and recognition awards
• Access to specialist training and funded professional qualifications
• Support for progression
• Huge range of discounts
• Volunteering days
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

We believe in creating an environment where our people can grow, thrive, and be their best selves. So whether you’re looking for a next step, a fresh start, or a helping hand as you return from a career break, here you’ll find a supportive, family-friendly organisation to be a part of. If you need any additional support with your application, let us know.

Job contact :

• Name : Courtney Robinson n- SDA Lead Recruiter
• Email : Courtney.robinson190@mod.gov.uk

Recruitment team

• Email : tyler.mclaughlin100@mod.gov.uk