A global engineering services provider require a Subcontract Manager to lead procurement and subcontract management activities on a high-profile and complex programme with the MOD. The Subcontract Manager should be commercially and contractually strong, exhibit leadership, gravitas and the ability to manage high-level and complex supplier, stakeholder and customer relationships. All industry-sector experience can be considered, but familiarity with long-term engineering services provision and delivery would be advantageous.
The Subcontract Manager will report to a Head of Supply Chain and work within a multi-disciplined procurement programme team which will include commercial, supplier and customer representatives. The Subcontract Manager will oversee a team of Buyers focused on operational and day-to-day supplier/subcontractor performance, whilst the Subcontract Manager focuses on strategic supplier and customer relationship management, and the management of complex subcontract management agreements.
Working with a small number of critical suppliers, you will manage subcontract arrangements spanning services, operations, design and manufacture activities, specialist engineering services and off-the-shelf equipment. Some suppliers are long-standing strategic partners embedded within programme delivery teams, whilst others operate as competitors in other markets, creating a uniquely complex stakeholder environment.
Lead the commercial and contractual management of a strategically important subcontract portfolio
Develop and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key suppliers, customers and stakeholders,
Negotiate, draft and manage complex subcontract agreements, ensuring contractual obligations, risk allocation and commercial protections are effectively managed.
Provide commercial leadership on matters including Intellectual Property rights, design authority responsibilities, contractual liabilities and supplier performance.
Influence and engage stakeholders at all levels, including Commercial Directors, programme leadership teams and supplier executives.
Champion continuous improvement initiatives and support the ongoing development of commercial processes, governance and ways of working.
Coach and develop a high-performing procurement team, promoting commercial best practice and strengthening capability across the wider function.
Lead complex negotiations, balancing commercial outcomes with the need to maintain critical supplier and customer relationships.
Proven experience negotiating, drafting and managing high-value, complex contracts and subcontracts within a procurement, supply chain or commercial environment.
Strong commercial judgement with a detailed understanding of contractual risk management, governance and commercial protection mechanisms.
Experience managing complex supplier relationships and operating within challenging stakeholder environments.
Experience coaching, mentoring or developing individuals and teams to improve capability and performance.
Experience championing change, improving processes or implementing new commercial or procurement initiatives.
Knowledge of Intellectual Property provisions, design rights, ownership arrangements and other commercially sensitive contractual matters
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence, gravitas and credibility to influence senior internal and external stakeholders.
Energy, ambition, agility and resilience, with the ability to succeed within an evolving programme environment.
CIPS, IACCM/WorldCC or equivalent professional accreditation, alongside a degree in Business, Commercial Management, Law or a related discipline.
Experience gained within defence, aerospace, engineering services, manufacturing, infrastructure, FM/construction service provision or other highly regulated environments would be advantageous.
Neutral 2–4 sentence summary of what working at this company is like, drawn from public reviews and press coverage. Tone, collaboration style, pace, benefits highlights.
