SDA Assistant Commercial Officer

The Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) is a part of the Ministry of Defence responsible for the procurement, in-service support, and disposal of the UKs nuclear submarines. Our work is of unparalleled strategic importance nationally and internationally, ensuring the security of the UKs continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent (CASD), and delivering some of the most technically complex programmes in defence. At least one of four nuclear-armed submarines, supported by smaller attack submarines, is on patrol at all times: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

At the SDA, we strive to Support, Deliver and Aspire and put our values at the heart of our recruitment process. We believe that everyone should feel comfortable to be themselves and be supported to do their best work. As part of a diverse and inclusive workforce, our team will find a community to belong to. We believe that, by celebrating different backgrounds and different perspectives, together well achieve the extraordinary.

This position is advertised at 37 hours per week.

The primary delivery location for this position is HMNB Plymouth.

Please note, due to the level of security, this role is reserved for UK nationals only.

Hybrid and flexible working can be considered for this post but will need regular workplace attendance due to security constraints. Candidates are encouraged to discuss options with the recruiting line manager before submitting an application.

Are you experienced in procurement and contract management, excited by the opportunity to shape and define the some of the biggest and complex defence programmes in the UK today? The Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) are currently seeking enthusiastic and driven Assistant Commercial Officers to join our team at Devonport.

This is an exciting opportunity for Assistant Commercial Officers to join our Commercial Team who are responsible for the procurement and contract management of a wide portfolio of outputs. As an Assistant Commercial Officer, youll provide Commercial supervised practitioner level expertise, conduct negotiations and cover routine aspects of Commercial activities including pre-sourcing analysis, contract sourcing, contract management, supply chain analysis, corporate activities, sales and disposals within delegated authority.

Its our people that make us great. Embrace our inclusive culture, where diversity fuels innovation, and together, well achieve the extraordinary. If youre seeking a role where your work makes a difference, this is it.

What youll be doing:

• Determine the appropriate commercial actions for requirements including supply market analysis, draft strategy plans, contract management plans and facilitate key aspects of the delivery. Ensure all contracts adhere to procurement regulations and Government policy.
• Assist/Lead (depending on project value) in the portfolio management of requirements and contracts varying in risk and complexity ensuring contract obligations are met in line with the contract and business requirements.
• Draft Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ), Invitation to Tender (ITT) and contract documentation in accordance with MOD policy and legislation.
• Negotiate terms and pricing, place and manage contracts and contract amendments up to a maximum delegation of 0.25M in accordance with set guidelines and conditions outlined in the individuals delegation letter and MOD policy.
• Support negotiation and contract placement above level of delegation when required and highlight novel and contentious issues to the Senior Commercial Officer (SCO) to ensure satisfactory resolution.
• Provide assurance and due diligence of commercial activity within own area of responsibility in order to provide confidence in commercial outcomes.
• Communicate in a timely manner with a range of internal and external stakeholders including suppliers and Subject Matter Experts.
• Supervise staff where required, advising Commercial Assistants.
• Provide support and assistance to commercial enabling teams to assist delivery of SDA Business Improvement projects.
• Contribute to wider Commercial Profession and SDA initiatives as required.

If you need to contact Defence Business Services (DBS) regarding this vacancy, please indicate that your vacancy is being handled by the SDA Recruitment Team. If you experience any technical difficulties with the CS Jobs system, please contact the Support Team at[email protected]

To be successful with your application, you'll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Previous experience of successfully delivering either in Contract Management or Contract Sourcing is essential.
• Proficient IT skills including Microsoft Office or equivalent and ability to use IT systems and programmes.

If not already held, successful candidates will be supported to undertake the required training below:

• Evidence of CIPS level 4/or equivalent, or a willingness to work towards this by commencing study within one year of appointment.
• Completion of the following three eLearning courses within 18 months of appointment: