Head of Commercial

Location: Bristol or Portsmouth (hybrid working, with flexibility for commuting)

Overview

We are partnering with a global organisation operating at the forefront of the defence and aerospace sector to appoint a Head of Commercial. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for shaping and delivering commercial strategy across a key business area reporting into the Group Commercial Director.

This position offers the opportunity to lead an established commercial team while working on complex, high-value programmes in a dynamic, international environment.

The Role

As Head of Commercial, you will take ownership of all commercial activities across your portfolio, balancing both pre- and post-contract responsibilities. While the role spans the full commercial lifecycle, there is a strong emphasis on post-signature delivery, stakeholder engagement, and governance.

A significant aspect of the role involves managing senior internal stakeholders, particularly across US-based teams, requiring strong influencing skills and the ability to operate effectively in a matrixed, global organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing commercial team
• Drive commercial strategy and governance across a defined business area
• Oversee contract negotiation, execution, and ongoing performance
• Ensure effective risk management and compliance with regulatory frameworks
• Act as a key interface with internal stakeholders, including senior leadership in the US
• Support business growth through input into bids, proposals, and customer engagements
• Provide commercial insight to support operational and strategic decision-making

About You

• Proven experience in a senior commercial leadership role within a complex environment (defence, aerospace, or similarly regulated industries preferred)
• Strong background across both pre- and post-contract commercial activities
• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence cross-functional and international teams
• Experience managing senior stakeholders, ideally within a global or US-facing structure
• Strong commercial acumen, with the ability to balance risk, opportunity, and delivery
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills

What’s On Offer

• Senior leadership role with real strategic influence
• Opportunity to work on high-profile, mission-critical programmes
• Hybrid working model with flexibility across Bristol and Portsmouth
• Competitive salary package including bonus and benefits

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