Contract Manager

Contracts Manager | Aerospace & Defence

Location: Luton, hybrid working with approximately 20% onsite

Contract: Until 30 April 2027

Security: Sole UK nationality required. SC clearance is required, although candidates may start on BPSS while clearance is progressed.

LHH is recruiting a Contracts Manager to support Leonardo’s Surveillance and Protection Technologies business, working across a varied portfolio of UK and international defence contracts.

This is an opportunity for an experienced commercial professional to take a senior role in managing complex contracts, supporting bids and shaping commercial strategy within a growing aerospace and defence business.

The role

Working as part of integrated project teams, you will provide commercial leadership across existing contracts and new opportunities. Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading commercial activity across bids, proposals and live contracts.
• Drafting, negotiating and administering complex contractual terms and conditions.
• Developing commercial strategies and securing internal approvals.
• Preparing customer pricing, applying appropriate pricing strategies to cost estimates.
• Managing contractual obligations, change control and commercial risk.
• Drafting and reviewing agreements, including NDAs, software licensing agreements and memoranda of understanding.
• Working with Procurement to ensure appropriate contractual terms flow through to subcontractors.
• Building strong relationships with customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders.

About you

You will bring a strong track record in commercial business winning and contract management, ideally within aerospace and defence, alongside:

• Experience managing UK Government and international contracts.
• Strong knowledge of contract law and its practical application.
• A detailed understanding of commercial finance, including profit and loss, margins, mark-up, escalation and foreign exchange.
• An understanding of export legislation, import taxes and duties.
• The ability to identify commercial risks and develop effective mitigation strategies.
• Confidence influencing and advising senior stakeholders.
• Excellent negotiation, written communication and presentation skills.
• The ability to prioritise competing demands and deliver to tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and PowerPoint.

A relevant degree, professional qualification such as IACCM/World Commerce & Contracting, and familiarity with SAP would be advantageous.

Working arrangements and security

The role is based in Luton, with approximately 20% onsite attendance. Travel to other UK sites and customer locations will be required, with possible overseas travel.

Sole UK nationality is a requirement for this position. SC clearance is required, with scope to commence on BPSS while SC clearance is progressed.

Apply through LinkedIn with your CV to be considered.