Role: Contracts Manager - Complex Engineering / Regulated Industry

Location: Kent (Hybrid - 4 days onsite, flexible hours)
Salary: £48,000 - £55,000

We are currently supporting a global engineering organisation who's renowned for delivering complex, long-term programmes in regulated sectors with the appointment of two experienced Contracts Managers.

This is a highly strategic opportunity to join a growing commercial function within a business undergoing significant expansion, both in headcount and infrastructure investment. The organisation operates across both defence and commercial markets, offering excellent exposure to major national programmes, long-term development contracts, and a diverse international customer base.

The Opportunity

• End-to-End Contract Ownership: Engage early in the bid and proposal stages, shape contract structures and strategy, lead negotiations, and ensure smooth flow-down of terms to suppliers on large-scale development projects.
• Variety & Complexity: Work across multi-year programmes, typically ranging 20-30 years, with stakeholders in both UK and US markets.
• Defined Career Progression: Clear development pathway into senior contract manager and commercial management roles, within a well-structured team that values succession planning.
• Supportive Team Environment: Work alongside 50+ commercial professionals, with junior staff to delegate to and a legal team for support.
• Balanced Workstyle: Hybrid model with a focus on work-life balance-onsite Monday to Thursday, with flexible hours and limited, planned travel.

Candidate Profile

Must-Have:

• 5+ years' experience in a contracts or commercial role (the more experience the better)
• Experience negotiating and drafting client/customer-facing terms and conditions
• Exposure to the full lifecycle of contracts (especially early-stage negotiation and mobilisation, including bid activity)
• Familiarity with a variety of agreement types and contract structures

Desirable:

• Background in highly regulated sectors such as aerospace, defence, rail, energy, nuclear, or other
• Understanding of how contract terms flow down to key suppliers in major programmes
• Legal background a bonus, though not required
• Strong communication skills and ability to work within integrated project teams

If you are an experienced Contracts Manager seeking a high-impact role with long-term prospects, please apply ASAP or email geoff.hunt@1st-executive.com to arrange a confidential conversation.