Head of Commercial

We’re looking for a Commercial Excellence Lead to strengthen contract management, governance, and commercial capability across the organisation.

Reporting to the Commercial Director, this role leads a centralised team and is focused on driving consistency, control, and performance across complex commercial contracts, primarily within a public sector environment.

You’ll be the subject matter expert on contractual matters—ensuring robust processes, managing risk, and improving how contracts are delivered and governed across the business.

Key Responsibilities

Commercial Contracts & Governance

Lead commercial excellence across the organisation, with a strong focus on contract management and control

Establish and embed governance frameworks to ensure contractual and internal compliance

Own processes for managing contractual claims, disputes, and escalations

Contract Management & Risk

Drive consistency in contract management, including change control and asset variation

Lead contract and project risk management across the business

Provide expert contractual advice to commercial and operational teams

Process & Assurance

Develop and standardise commercial processes across:

Contract management and administration

Billable works

Risk and assurance

Lead commercial assurance activity, including external audits

Commercial Performance

Deliver clear commercial reporting and insights

Identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue generation

Ensure robust controls for subcontractor engagement and work allocation

Stakeholder Management

Build effective relationships with key stakeholders including MoD and DIO

Support procurement strategies and supply chain engagement

Improve understanding of contractual obligations across the business

Leadership & Culture

Support the Commercial Director and wider leadership team

Promote a strong commercial culture, aligned to safety, compliance, and values

What We’re Looking For

Experience

Strong background in commercial contract management within complex environments

Proven experience managing contractual disputes and claims

Deep understanding of NEC4 and public sector contracts

Experience working with public procurement regulations (Procurement Act 2023)

Track record of implementing commercial governance, assurance, and risk frameworks

Experience supporting or leading commercial input into bids and supply chain management

Skills

Strong contractual and commercial judgement

Able to interpret complex contract terms and commercial data

Confident communicator and negotiator

Able to influence senior stakeholders and drive consistency across teams

Qualifications

Degree or equivalent in Law, Quantity Surveying, or Built Environment

Ideally chartered (or working towards)