Contract Delivery Lead - Estates & Liabilities

About the role

AWE is seeking an experienced commercial leader to lead the commercial delivery of one of the UK's most complex operational estates, supporting the UK's defence and security mission. Reporting to the Commercial Contract Delivery Director, you will be accountable for the commercial performance, governance and strategic management of a major Estates & Liabilities portfolio, covering estate maintenance, utilities, asset renewal, enabling works, demolition and infrastructure investment. The role leads four Principal Contract Managers and their wider teams.

Key responsibilities

• Set commercial direction, priorities and performance expectations for the Estates & Liabilities portfolio
• Develop and implement commercial strategies that maximise value, improve performance and manage risk
• Oversee contractual obligations, performance measures, change management, claims, disputes, financial mechanisms and governance
• Partner with engineering, operational and programme leaders to turn investment priorities into commercial strategies
• Lead complex negotiations and give strategic direction on major commercial and contractual decisions
• Manage relationships with strategic suppliers and build the capability and succession strength of the commercial organisation
• Champion commercial governance, assurance and decision-making across the portfolio

Required profile

• Significant experience leading commercial teams across major infrastructure, estates, utilities or capital investment portfolios
• Track record of developing commercial strategy, leading complex negotiations and influencing senior stakeholders
• Commercial, contractual and risk expertise in infrastructure, defence, nuclear, energy or another regulated sector
• Relevant degree or equivalent experience; RICS, CICES or similar membership is advantageous
• Willingness and ability to obtain and maintain the required security clearance (funded by AWE); British citizenship is required, with 5 years' UK residence for SC clearance and 10 years for DV

What we offer

• Competitive leadership salary, performance-related bonus and flexible benefit scheme
• 9-day working fortnight with every other Friday off, plus 270 hours of annual leave
• Pension scheme with employer contribution of 9% to 13% of pensionable pay
• Maternity leave of 39 weeks full pay and paternity leave of 4 weeks full pay
• Life assurance (4 times annual salary), discounts, employee assistance programme and special leave policy
• Hybrid working (typically three days on site in a long week, two in a short week)