Job Title: Interim Head of Contracts Management – Economy & Environment
Location: Hereford (Hybrid – Minimum 2 days on-site per week)
Rate: Negotiable Inside IR35
Contract Type: Interim – 6 months initially, with potential for extension
Directorate: Economy & Environment
Reporting To: Director of Commercial Services
Start Date: As soon as possible
Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced Interim Head of Contracts Management to join our Economy & Environment Directorate. This is a key role designed to support the consolidation and strategic development of our contracts management function. The successful candidate will play a critical role in expanding the scope of contract oversight and driving best practice across major service areas.
Key Responsibilities
* Contract Consolidation: Work closely with stakeholders across the Economy & Environment Directorate to bring major contracts into scope, improving oversight and consistency.
* Stakeholder Engagement: Build effective relationships with internal teams and external partners to support the alignment of contract management processes and frameworks.
* Strategic Input- Contribute: to the development and implementation of contract management strategies that align with the council’s broader commercial objectives.
* Performance Monitoring: Ensure that contracts deliver expected outcomes in terms of cost, quality, and compliance.
* Continuous Improvement: Identify areas of improvement and implement best practices in contract management to enhance service delivery and value for money.
* Governance & Compliance: Ensure all contracts are managed in line with legal, regulatory, and council governance requirements.
About the Directorate
The Contracts Management team is part of the Directorate of Commercial Services, which sits within the Economy & Environment Directorate. This Directorate includes responsibility for:
* Contracts Management
* Property Services (Estates, Investment & Retail)
* Facilities Management
* Capital Programmes
* Broader commercial activity across the council
This role offers a fantastic opportunity to be part of a dynamic team driving positive change in contract management practices at a strategic level.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Proven experience in public sector contract management, ideally within local government or similar environments
* Strong stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to influence and drive change
* Knowledge of relevant procurement legislation, governance, and compliance frameworks
* Excellent organisational and analytical skills
* Strong commercial acumen with an ability to deliver efficiencies and service improvements through effective contract management
Desirable:
* MCIPS or equivalent professional qualification
* Experience managing contracts in infrastructure, environmental services, property, or facilities management
If this position is of interest please apply with your most up to date CV or send it directly to dpalmer@venngroup.com and myself or a member of the team will be in contact!