The Commercial Manager is responsible for leading the commercial and programme execution activities associated with defence-sector contracts, projects, and strategic customer engagements.

Responsibilities & Key Functions

• Programme & Project Management: Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of programmes while managing costs, schedules, technical compliance, and cross-functional teams.

• Commercial Management: Oversee the full contract lifecycle—including negotiations, variations, dispute management, pricing strategies, and financial performance (revenue, margins, and cash flow).

• Customer & Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary point of contact for internal and external clients, lead executive briefings, and support business development initiatives.

• Risk, Compliance & Governance: Own lifecycle risk management, implement governance frameworks, and ensure strict compliance with defence industry regulations, export controls, and HSSE standards.

• Leadership & Team Management: Lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor stakeholders, and foster a culture of accountability, integrity, and operational excellence.

Key Requirements & Qualifications

• Qualifications: A Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Business Management, or Commerce, supplemented by a Project Management qualification (PMBOK certification), commercial/contract management training, and an MBA or postgraduate qualification.

• Experience: 8 to 15 years of experience in programme, project, or commercial management, specifically within the defence, aerospace, security, or advanced manufacturing sectors.

• Skills & Attributes: Strong leadership and strategic capability, high commercial acumen, deep understanding of defence operating environments and contract law, and excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

• Security & Compliance: Must be eligible to obtain and maintain required security clearances and comply with all organisational security, confidentiality, and export control standards.

This role will suit an experienced professional with 8 to 15 years in defence, aerospace, or security programme and commercial management. Someone with strong contract negotiation, and strategic account management skills could excel in this role.