DE&S/SDA Commercial Officer

At Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) and the Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA), we manage a vast range of projects to supply and maintain vital equipment and services for the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force. Together, we deliver essential defence programmes – and strive for what’s next. Because it helps keep our military at the top of their game and our nation safe, now and in the future.

We support all of our people to be at their best – because if our people thrive, we all succeed together.

As part of our Commercial function, you’ll join a diverse team of around 1,000 people who support the successful delivery of defence procurement programmes with real world impact. Equipping and supporting the UK’s armed forces, these programmes range from peacekeeping to disaster relief to humanitarian aid projects – and we’re proud to help deliver them while ensuring compliance and best value.

We have multiple opportunities for experienced Commercial Officers to join our teams in Bristol and Yeovil. If you are interested in playing your part in running and supporting procurements for Air, Sea, Land or Strategic Enabling Projects then apply now!

 This is an excellent way to begin or continue your career in the Civil Service. There are a large number and a variety of roles available within both DE&S and SDA working on projects in support of the British Armed Forces. You will be supporting them in everything from disaster relief and reconstruction to peacekeeping and humanitarian aid projects.

Please note that some of the positions available will be open to Sole UK Nationals only and some successful applicants may need to be able to pass Developed Vetting clearance.

Please also note some attendance to the stated site may be required for this position.

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

• Developing Invitation to Tender documentation, negotiating terms, pricing and placing of contracts up to a maximum delegation of £2.5M, in accordance with the Ministry of Defence policy.
• Supporting the development of new Procurement Strategies through analysis of the markets for Defence Equipment, ‘learning from experience’ with other teams in DE&S and using DE&S acquisition tools to advertise defence procurements to future suppliers.
• Lead and/or assist (depending on project value) in the portfolio management of Category A – D contracts, ensuring contract obligations are met in line with the contract and business requirements.
• Monitoring supplier performance management in accordance with Contract Management Plans.
• Contributing to wider Commercial function and business improvement activities.
• Communicating in a timely manner with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage staff where required, advising, coaching, and developing Commercial Assistants.

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

• Previous experience of sourcing, delivering, and managing contracts.
• The ability to manage staff where required, providing advice and support on development.
• Proficient IT skills including Microsoft Office or equivalent and ability to use IT systems and programmes.

If not already held, if successful you will be supported to undertake the following:

• CIPS level 4/or equivalent, or a willingness to work towards this by commencing study within one year of appointment.
• Have passed the MOD Practitioner Commercial Licence assessment or be willing to undertake the assessment when agreed by line management.

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

• Tender and Bid Process
• Contract Management
• Working Together
• Managing a Quality Service

• 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- DE&S/SDA Lead Recruiter
• Email : Courtney.robinson190@mod.gov.uk

Recruitment team

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