Assistant Director of Commercial Procurement, Contract Management and Social Value

Role Description

We are seeking an experienced and driven Commercial Procurement, Contract Management and Social Value Manager to lead the delivery of high quality commercial outcomes across our organisation. This is a key strategic role within our organisation, responsible for leading and delivering high quality commercial outcomes across procurement, contract management, and social value. You will play a central role in ensuring that all commercial activity is aligned to organisational priorities, delivers value for money, and meets regulatory requirements.

You will take ownership of the full commercial lifecycle, from early market engagement and procurement strategy through to contract award, mobilisation, and ongoing contract management. This includes overseeing supplier performance, managing risks, and ensuring that contracts are delivering the intended outcomes in terms of cost, quality, and service delivery. A core element of the role is to embed and drive social value, ensuring that our procurement activity generates wider economic, social, and environmental benefits for our communities. You will work with internal stakeholders and suppliers to design meaningful social value commitments and ensure these are measured and delivered effectively throughout the life of the contract.

Working closely with senior leaders and service teams, you will provide expert commercial advice, influence decision making, and support the development of robust sourcing strategies. You will also lead on improving commercial practices, strengthening governance, and promoting consistent, best practice approaches across the organisation. This role offers the opportunity to shape how the organisation manages its external spend, enhance supplier relationships, and deliver tangible benefits both operationally and for the wider community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and deliver end-to-end procurement processes, including strategy, tendering, and contract award
• Manage contracts proactively, including performance, risk, and supplier relationships
• Embed and deliver social value requirements across all stages of procurement and contract management
• Develop and monitor KPIs and performance frameworks to ensure continuous improvement
• Provide expert commercial advice to senior stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with procurement legislation, policy, and governance frameworks
• Identify opportunities for savings, innovation, and improved service delivery
• Lead on dispute resolution, contract changes, and performance improvement planning

About You:

You will have:

• Proven experience in procurement and contract management within a complex organisation
• Strong knowledge of UK public procurement regulations and best practice
• Experience delivering social value outcomes in procurement
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills
• Strong analytical, financial, and commercial acumen
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results under pressure