Job Title: Contract Manager (Subcontracts) Location: Hybrid (1 day in Farnborough per week) Duration: 6 months initially Rate: Competitive (inside IR35) SC/DV Cleareance required Our client is seeking a Contract Manager to take responsibility for planning, developing, and executing sub-contracts to support company goals. This role will negotiate long-term agreements with suppliers, manage requisitions and purchase orders for technical equipment and systems, and ensure delivery aligns with project timelines and budget. You will stay abreast of technology trends, market dynamics, and supplier road maps, reviewing purchase order claims for compliance and resolving delivery issues with suppliers and stakeholders. Key Responsibilities: Lead all procurement subcontract activities in partnership with project teams, ensuring delivery within time, quality, and cost constraints. Construct, negotiate, and manage contractual changes with suppliers and subcontractors. Manage subcontracts throughout the full project lifecycle, maintaining strong relationships and overseeing performance. Resolve contract disputes, ensuring solutions protect the business' commercial interests. Advise internal customers, providing market insights and supply chain solutions for the UK Defence sector. Ensure negotiated terms with the company's customers are flowed down to supplier agreements, including risk provisions. Drive sourcing processes for procurement projects, identify risks and opportunities, and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver the procurement strategy. Implement contract governance and monitor compliance, recommending improvements and risk mitigations. Build and maintain relationships with critical suppliers and internal stakeholder communities. Write and implement sourcing strategies for complex projects. Ensure adherence to process, governance, and controls outlined in procurement and sourcing methodologies. Identify supply chain risks, propose mitigations, and ensure risks are logged in appropriate management plans. Collaborate on continuous improvement plans for contracts and participate in best practice sharing across the business. Maintain awareness of supplier restrictions and compliance within a Defence environment. Key Skills & Experience: Sub-Contract Management and Supplier Relationship Management experience. Track record of managing and mitigating supply chain risk and capitalising on opportunities. Proficient in contract negotiation and dispute resolution. Comfortable working independently to solve complex problems, adapt delivery pace, and influence colleagues when needed. Strong commercial acumen, emotional intelligence, and communication skills. Experience managing business relationships internally and externally. Degree in Business or Engineering (or equivalent experience). CIPS qualified or equivalent procurement experience. Minimum 2 years' experience in Procurement or Supply Chain. Recognition as a subject matter expert in contract/subcontract management. To Apply: Please send your CV.