Commercial & Procurement Manager

Lewisham Council is seeking a Commercial & Procurement Manager to lead and support procurement, contract management, and commercial activities across Housing Services. The role is responsible for ensuring the effective procurement and delivery of contracts covering repairs and maintenance, major works, professional services, ICT systems, and other key housing services. Working closely with operational teams, finance, legal, and procurement colleagues, you will drive best value, strengthen contract governance, manage commercial risk, and ensure compliance with procurement legislation and council policies. You will oversee contract performance, procurement activity through Dynamic Purchasing Systems, supplier relationships, and contract mobilisation, while promoting social value, sustainability, and inclusive growth. The successful candidate will bring significant experience in procurement and contract management, strong commercial acumen, and a thorough understanding of public sector procurement regulations. You will be a strategic thinker with excellent stakeholder management skills and a proven ability to deliver value for money and service improvements in a complex environment. Key areas of responsibility:

• Lead procurement and commercial activity across Housing Services.
• Develop and maintain robust contract management and governance arrangements.
• Manage supplier performance, risks, contract variations, and compliance.
• Provide expert procurement advice to senior managers and service teams.
• Deliver value for money, social value outcomes, and continuous improvement.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
  
  Strong knowledge of public sector procurement, contract management, and commercial governance.
• Understanding of relevant procurement legislation, financial regulations, and best value principles.
• Knowledge of risk management and performance monitoring within complex service contracts.
Essential Experience
• Proven experience managing procurement and contract management activities in a large, complex, public sector organisation.
• Experience of leading end-to-end procurement exercises and managing supplier relationships.
• Demonstrable track record of delivering value for money, service improvements, and commercial savings.
• Experience of managing contract performance, compliance, and risk.
Essential Skills
• Strong commercial and analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex information and provide practical recommendations.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, deliver projects to deadlines, and work collaboratively across teams.
• Strong report writing, problem-solving, and decision-making skills., Degree-level qualification or equivalent professional qualification in procurement, law, construction, housing, business, or a related discipline.
• Evidence of continuing professional development.