UK Atomic Energy Authority
Commercial Manager
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Commercial Manager
Commercial Manager
The UK Government has established UK Fusion Energy (UKFE) Ltd, a subsidiary of UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), to lead delivery of fusion energy through design and construction of the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) prototype fusion plant. UK Industrial Fusion Solutions Ltd (UKIFS) is establishing itself, setting up the company, attracting talent, engaging with supply chains, and planning the STEP prototype—critically vital for combating climate change and securing energy independence.
Fusion energy, expected to be commercially viable by mid-century, is a transformational industry. UKIFS will establish a fusion supply chain, with potential to reach an estimated £7tn global sector value per year. Join this groundbreaking mission.
About the Company
- As an employee of UKFE, enjoy outstanding benefits:
- Exceptional defined benefit pension scheme (details here)
- Corporate bonus scheme (up to 7%)
- Relocation allowance (if eligible)
- Flexible working (including family-friendly policies and early rights to request flexible work)
- Employee Assistance Programme (including trained Mental Health First Aiders)
- 25 days annual leave + Christmas closure (3 days) + 2.5 privilege days (plus UK bank holidays)
- Vibrant career development opportunities
- Strong commitment to inclusivity and diversity
- Full benefits list: Employee Benefits
Role Details
Role: Commercial Manager Location: West Burton, Nottinghamshire Salary: £51,317 base (additional £5,800 possible with MCIPS) Onsite Working: 3 days per week
About the Role
The Commercial Manager is a senior commercial professional accountable for pre-contract and post-contract commercial activity, including procurement strategy, financial management, cost control, and contractual assurance for complex construction, engineering, and infrastructure projects within Integrated Project Teams (IPTs).
The role operates with autonomy, offering expert commercial advice across the full project lifecycle—from cost planning, procurement, and contract negotiation through to final account agreements. Collaboration with technical, legal, and finance stakeholders ensures successful contract execution, focusing on alliancing, collaborative working, and value delivery. The role guarantees compliance with regulatory and contractual obligations while overseeing value for money recognition and seamless stakeholder engagement.
Depending on IPT/business unit alignment, duties align with RICS or CIPS professional standards, organisational governance, and relevant regulations (including PA23 compliance standards).
Key Responsibilities:
1. Pre-Contract & Procurement
- Support development, review, and negotiation of complex contracts (e.g., JVs, supply agreements, construction, and service contracts).
- Collaborate with legal, finance, and sourcing teams to align contract terms with project objectives, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation.
- Identify and manage contractual risks, recommending mitigation strategies.
- Define performance metrics and integrate into contract requirements.
- Lead procurement activities within regulatory frameworks.
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2. Cost Management & Control
- Lead cost forecasting, budgetary control, and assurance for major contracts.
- Oversee and manage:
- Cost plans and breakdown structures
- Scoping, accounting for risk mitigation (pain/gain mechanisms)
- Forecasts, cash flows, and earned value metrics
- Provide authoritative advice on commercial implications of design/scope changes and delays.
- Ensure costs align with approved budgets, governance thresholds, and delegated authorities.
3. Measurement, Valuation & Change Control
- Facilitate effective contract change management, including valuation, negotiated resolutions, and documentation (following contract mechanisms such as NEC).
- Ensure contractor valuations deliver value for money and compliance.
- Support direct reports in progressing final account agreements and contract close-outs.
4. Contract Support & Advisory
- Advise on contractual strategies, pricing, risk allocation, and commercial models.
- Lead negotiations during tender and post-contract stages.
- Ensure adherence to contractual terms, governance, and industry standards.
5. Risk, Claims & Dispute Resolution
- Manage cost/commercial risks systematically, enforcing proactive mitigation.
- Avoid disputes through early engagement, negotiation, and contracted administration.
- Provide expertise in dispute resolution, including escalation to senior leadership.
6. Reporting, Governance & Assurance
- Prepare cost and commercial reports for senior stakeholders.
- Maintain auditable records and financial compliance across the portfolio.
- Support audits and audibility assurance cycles.
- Continuously improve cost management processes, data rigour, and reporting discipline.
7. Stakeholder Management & Leadership
- Build and maintain trusted relationships across the commercial team, project managers, engineers, finance, and senior leadership.
- Serve as the lead commercial authority for negotiations with contractors and suppliers.
- Mentor and guide direct reports and junior colleagues, championing professional integrity, ethics, and organisational values.
- Act as a vibrant cultural role model, advocating for collaborative diversity and professional leadership.
8. Leadership Mindset
- Embody leadership behaviours aligned with the organisation’s values, culture, and mission.
- Foster an inclusive and positive team environment inspired by diversity and respect.
- Ensure compliance with organisational codes while adhering to ethical standards.
- Foster data-driven decision-making, problem-solving, and inclusive problem-resolution efforts.
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Note: This role encompasses other reasonable additional tasks when required.
Requirements
Required Qualifications & Experience
We require strategic contract professionals with extensive experience at senior levels in construction, infrastructure, or major commercial projects.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Proven experience in commercial/procurement management for construction/infrastructure projects (or similar).
- Exceptional track record in high-value, high-risk contract management.
- Deep familiarity with standard contract forms (e.g., NEC, bespoke agreements).
- demonstrable expertise in cost planning, valuation, change control, and final accounts.
- Strong analytical, negotiation, and stakeholder-relationship building skills.
Desirable Experience:
- Exposure to regulated or public-sector commercial environments.
- experience guiding quantity surveyors/procurement teams.
- Knowledge of assurance, governance, and delegated authority frameworks.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)
UKFE actively welcomes candidates from underrepresented groups, including but not limited to:
- Women in STEM
- Black, Minority Ethnic communities
- Individual with disabilities
Our management team champions EDI initiatives with an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Partner and Inclusion Ambassadors. We align best recruitment practices to reducing barriers and promoting equitable opportunities.
Accessibility
UKFE commits to advancing accessibility. Contact accessibility@ukaea.uk if you require adjustments for equitable competition, such as tailored interview arrangements or resource adaptations.
Security Clearance & Legal Recruitment Policy
Security Requirements:
- This role requires completion of a BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard), including DBS checks for criminal convictions.
- A future need for SC Clearance may arise. If held, clearance can be transferred.
Overseas Policy:
- For applicants residing outside the UK (or having spent >5 years abroad), please follow: Criminal Records Checks for Overseas Applicants
Recruitment Closing Policy: Vacancies are upheld for 4 weeks, though they may close earlier if exceptional demand is received. If successful, your application may be considered for future opportunities.
Further Opportunities Available:
- To explore all current positions, visit [STEP Careers](Careers - STEP).
Division: UKFE – Commercial Site: West Burton, Nottinghamshire Grade: Grade G
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