Subcontracts Manager - Contractor

*This role sits inside IR35*

Reports To

Head of Supply Chain

Role Description

Work with the Subcontracts team, where you will be responsible for managing all aspects of subcontract management. From collaborating with engineering teams to define initial requirements to leading the selection process and negotiating subcontracts, your role will be integral in ensuring successful project execution. You will also oversee the delivery of subcontracted products and services while fostering strategic business relationships with key suppliers. As part of a small, dynamic team of Subcontract Managers, you will contribute across all SSTL missions.

Key Tasks

• Manage all aspects of subcontracting within assigned projects, including reporting key issues and risks during monthly project reviews.

• Act as the primary liaison with internal and external stakeholders (e.g., Airbus legal, regulatory bodies) to ensure commercial and contractual rigor in bid and project activities.

• Lead negotiations with internal and external stakeholders to secure favourable contract terms.

• Identify and implement cost-saving measures, such as multi-project purchases.

• Ensure all contractual documentation aligns with established procedures and processes.

• Continuously assess subcontractor performance and associated risks.

• Develop strategic business relationships with major subcontractors to support long-term collaboration.

• Track subcontracted equipment or services, providing clear and concise reporting within a matrix structure to keep Work Package and Project Managers informed.

• Enhance the profile of the Subcontracts Team within SSTL.

• Contribute to the improvement of existing policies and procedures.

• Ensure proper flow-down of customer terms and conditions (T&Cs) and alignment of milestone payment plans to support project cash flow.

PERSON SPECIFICATION (essential requirements)

Experience, Qualifications and Skills

• Proven experience in Subcontract or Contract Management, ideally within the satellite, engineering, or aerospace industry.

• Degree-level education or equivalent in a Commercial, Business, or Engineering discipline.

• Strong knowledge of commercial and contractual risk management.

• Proven experience in negotiating and implementing standard and non-standard contracting vehicles, ideally with full life-cycle experience.

• Ability to troubleshoot and facilitate solutions with internal and external stakeholders.

• Experience in supplier evaluation and down-selection processes.

• Background in process development within a multidisciplinary engineering environment.

• Working knowledge of procurement and project management processes.

• MCIPS qualification or progress towards MCIPS is beneficial but not essential.

• Highly organized with excellent communication skills.

• Creative thinker with the ability to challenge established practices.

• Strong negotiation and influencing skills at all levels.

• Ability to provide and receive constructive feedback.

• Strong understanding of contractual and programmatic risk, with a pragmatic approach to mitigation.

• Results-driven and able to perform effectively under pressure.

• Willingness to travel within the UK and internationally as required.

• Proficiency in MS Office and ERP systems.

• Ability to obtain SC clearance if required.

Location

The role is based in our Head Office in Guildford.

Department

Commercial

Role

Subcontracts Manager

Locations

Guildford

Employment type

Contract

Job Reference