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Job Description
At the Environment Agency, we are proud to foster an inclusive workplace where equal opportunities and flexible working arrangements (including job shares) are encouraged and supported. Our mission is to protect and enhance the natural environment, ensuring we leave the world in a better state than we found it. As part of our journey to becoming a net zero organisation, Defra Group Fleet Services (DGFS) plays a critical role in leading our transition to a more sustainable fleet.
We are offering an exciting leadership opportunity for an experienced contract professional to drive meaningful change and help deliver on our ambitious fleet strategy. You will manage a team of specialists overseeing a diverse portfolio of purchase and service contracts for the Environment Agency and our Defra partners.
You will work collaboratively across departments to identify business requirements, shape contract strategies, and lead procurement processes through to contract award. As part of the contract management leadership team, you will be responsible for building and maintaining strong supplier relationships, managing full contract lifecycles, and ensuring compliance with environmental, legal, and health & safety standards.
As with all roles across the Environment Agency, incident response forms a vital part of our work. Training and participation will be required, and further details are outlined in the candidate pack.
The team
Defra Group Fleet Services (DGFS) is a national team within the Strategy, Transformation and Assurance Directorate. We provide a collaborative fleet management service across the Defra Group, working closely with other teams to define contract needs, procure fleet goods and services, and oversee supplier performance to ensure seamless service delivery. This role reports directly to the Strategic Fleet Manager.
Experience & skills required
* Act as the principal advisor on fleet contract matters, offering expert guidance and developing solutions within policy frameworks and best practice standards.
* Shape and influence fleet policy at both national and local levels, while ensuring consistent contract‑aligned implementation and compliance.
* Design and implement performance monitoring systems, interpreting supplier data and operational insights to provide evidence‑based recommendations to senior leadership.
* Build strong partnerships with both internal stakeholders and external providers to influence outcomes, enhance service delivery, and uphold the Environment Agency’s reputation.
* Lead and manage a geographically dispersed team, ensuring efficient planning, resource allocation, and delivery against objectives in a dynamic working environment.
Location & working arrangements
The location is flexible as part of a national team. You may be required to work in EA offices and attend national meetings, possibly with some overnight stays. The role is full‑time but requests for other work patterns will be considered.
Contact and additional information
Please contact Nick Kennedy (Strategic Fleet Manager) via email at nick.kennedy@environment-agency.gov.uk for more information or an informal discussion. A virtual candidate briefing session will be scheduled for those interested.
Competence requirements
1. Focus on Efficiency, Innovation and Quality
Provide an example where you identified and implemented new or improved methods, processes, or technology without compromising quality or accuracy. Your answer will be used for interview selection.
2. Influences and Persuades Others
Provide an example where you presented a convincing case that won people over, encouraging them to follow plans willingly.
3. Takes Decisions and Solves Problems
Provide an example where you delivered a solution to a problem by effectively analysing information, developing alternatives, and taking sound decisions.
4. Contracts & Relationship Management
Provide an example where you developed and managed successful contracts.
Role specific licence requirements
Full UK Driving Licence.
EEO & Diversity
We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. The Environment Agency, as a Non‑Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For more information on support for suppliers, see the URL https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know.
Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified, applications may be withdrawn. Please review the guidelines on appropriate use.
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