Leads commercial strategy and procurement for UK Biobank, managing high-value technology and cloud infrastructure contracts, supplier negotiations, and the re-procurement of the Research Analysis Platform.
About this role
UK Biobank is a large-scale biomedical research resource following the health of half a million volunteers. It enables discoveries that improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease.
We’re now looking for our first Head of Commercial to shape our approach to procurement, supplier relationships and contract management, and to build a commercial strategy that supports UK Biobank’s continued growth.
A key early priority will be leading the commercial approach to the re-procurement of our Research Analysis Platform and supporting cloud infrastructure, alongside helping us develop a longer-term commercial strategy that delivers value, manages risk and supports our wider objectives.
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Key Responsibilities
Working closely with senior managers and our Executive Team, providing expert commercial advice across high-value and complex procurements.
Help shape routes to market, negotiate major supplier agreements, strengthen contract management, and identify opportunities to improve value across our commercial portfolio.
You’ll also have the opportunity to define how commercial capability develops at UK Biobank, supported by an existing procurement team that manages day-to-day tendering and purchasing activity.
This is a great opportunity for someone who combines public-sector procurement expertise with strong commercial judgement and an interest in technology, cloud and purpose-led work. You will be responsible for
Leading the re-procurement of UK Biobank’s Research Analysis Platform and Cloud Infrastructure contracts, advising on route to market, developing tender documentation, and supporting market engagement activities.
Building strong working relationships with senior managers and members of the executive team, providing expert advice and guidance on how to design and execute complex procurements to drive best value, whilst ensuring UK Biobank is compliant with new public procurement regulations.
Developing and leading UK Biobank’s commercial strategy, developing plans for key category spend, and exploring opportunities to adapt purchasing processes to improve value, and reduce costs.
Leading the negotiation of commercial agreements with key suppliers and stakeholders.
Providing dynamic and inclusive leadership with the ability to build, maintain and motivate high-performing teams that deliver at pace.
Championing and being a role model for the organisation, acting in a way that is consistent with the desired culture of the organisation and the behaviours expected of its senior leaders.
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Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
To be successful, you will have:
Experience leading complex and/or high value public procurements of technology or cloud infrastructure, including familiarity with technology-related government/CCS frameworks and experience of purchasing via this route.
MCIPS qualification.
Experience negotiating high-value contracts.
Strategic thinking with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Working hours are 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday; hybrid working is available. The role will be based at our Greenheys office, located within Manchester Science Park, just outside the city centre.
We actively welcome applications from people with disabilities, long-term health conditions, neurodivergent candidates, and those with diverse thinking styles. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and in the workplace so that everyone can perform at their best. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please get in touch with Tommy Wilson at [email protected] so we can support you
Benefits
Our wellbeing score on Indeed is rated at 77% (high), reflecting how people experience working here day-to-day. Colleagues often highlight a strong sense of purpose, supportive team culture, and the opportunity to grow.
We’re proud to offer a benefits package that supports your health, financial security, and development.
Our benefits
🏦 14.5% employer contribution to the USS Pension Scheme
🏖️ 26 days' annual leave, plus bank holidays, increasing to 30 days with service
➕ Option to buy up to 5 additional days' leave
🎂 A paid day off for your birthday
👶 Enhanced family leave
💻 Hybrid & Flexible working available
🩺 Healthcare Cash Plan and wellbeing support
🏋️ Free on-site gym, subsidised lunch and free parking
#LI-Hybrid
The job advert closing date may change, so early applications are encouraged.
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