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, 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 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.
Contact and Additional Information
As part of a national team the location is flexible. You may be required to work in EA offices and attend national meetings, possibly with overnight stays. The post is Full Time but requests for other work patterns will be considered.
Please contact Nick Kennedy (Strategic Fleet Manager) via email at nick.kennedy@environment-agency.gov.uk for more information or an informal discussion. We will be running a virtual candidate briefing session for those interested in applying for the role on a date to be confirmed. Invitations can be acquired by emailing Nick Kennedy at the above address.
Competence 1: Focuses on Efficiency, Innovation and Quality
Please give an example of where you have identified the opportunity to create, introduce and implement new or improved methods, processes and without compromising quality or accuracy.
Competence 2: Influences and Persuades Others
Please give an example of where you have presented a case in a convincing and attractive way that will win people over, encouraging the adoption of your plans willingly.
Competence 3: Takes Decisions and Solves Problems
Please give an example of where you have found and delivered a solution to a problem, by effectively analysing all the information, probing to develop alternatives and taking sound and timely decisions.
Competence 4: Contracts & Relationship Management
Please give an example of where you have developed and managed successful contracts.
Role Specific License Requirements
Full UK Driving Licence.
Legal Notice
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, and have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability. The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks for all external recruitment needs. For support supplier enquiries, visit 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 Disclosure
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. Plagiarism or false claims may result in withdrawal of applications and disciplinary action.
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