Commercial Contract Manager

Copello is supporting a leading defence organisation in the recruitment of a Commercial Manager. This role offers the exciting chance to work in a business-critical area, directly influencing the future of UK defence domains.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the negotiation of commercial contracts, ensuring alignment with company objectives.
• Lead and take formal direct line management responsibility for junior members of the team
• Manage the full route-to-contract process, from bid stage through to contract delivery.
• Oversee contracts throughout their lifecycle, including amendments, renewals, and compliance checks.
• Ensure adherence to defence industry standards (ITAR, EAR, FAR/DFARS, MoD DEFCONs, QDCs).
• Drive business-winning activities, supporting proposals and customer negotiations.
• Identify and mitigate contract-related risks.
• Act as the primary contact for contractual matters, providing guidance and managing disputes.

What we’re looking for:

• Proven commercial experience within the defence sector.
• Proven experience of team leadership or direct line report managment 
• Strong background in drafting, negotiating, and managing contracts.
• Excellent attention to detail, analytical ability, and risk awareness.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Familiarity with MoD contracting structures (DEFCONs, QDCs) preferred.

What’s on offer:

• Bonus of up to 21% of base salary.
• Pension contributions up to 14%.
• Flexible working arrangements, no core hours!
• only 2/3 days a week on site (more encouraged during initial probation)
• Enhanced parental leave, including support for adoption, paternity, neonatal leave and fertility treatment.
• Excellent site facilities, including subsidised meals and free parking.