Commercial Manager/Contract Lead (Contract Role) Location: Barrow/Hybrid Contract Type: Contract initially 6 months Company: BAE Systems Are you ready to take the lead in shaping commercial strategy for one of the world's leading defence and security organisations? We are seeking a driven and experienced Commercial Manager to join our dynamic team on a contract basis, playing a key role across multiple critical programmes. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of commercial leadership, providing strategic guidance, ensuring contractual compliance, and driving commercial excellence in high-stakes, complex environments. Key Responsibilities Lead the development and execution of commercial strategies across key programmes. Oversee contractual management activities, ensuring compliance and maximising value. Provide expert advice on commercial, legal, and contractual matters to support business decision-making. Negotiate and manage complex contracts and business arrangements with customers, suppliers, and partners. Develop and mentor a high-performing commercial team. Identify and mitigate commercial risks across all contract phases. Ensure effective flow-down of commercial terms to suppliers with balanced risk management. Represent BAE Systems in external negotiations and meetings, requiring occasional travel. What We're Looking For Experience & Expertise: Minimum 5 years' experience in Commercial & Contractual management. Strong background in UK MOD and US DOD contracting, including DEFCONs, FAR/DFAR. Proven ability to assess, draft, and negotiate a wide range of contracts. In-depth knowledge of pricing strategies, cost estimating, and export compliance. Demonstrated ability to interpret complex contractual requirements and drive successful delivery. Leadership & Influence: A collaborative leader with experience in motivating and developing teams. Strong influencing skills with the ability to engage at all levels of the organisation and with external stakeholders. Experience driving a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and shared learning. Communication & Problem Solving: Excellent communicator with the ability to present complex issues clearly and influence key decisions. Skilled in risk evaluation and problem resolution in high-pressure environments. Strong mentoring, coaching, and delegation abilities.