Overview

Senior Commercial Director - Defence & Security | Arcadis | Birmingham, England, United Kingdom

Role description

Provide strategic leadership for cost and commercial management services across the most complex national and international defence projects—including infrastructure, facilities, and secure environments. This role ensures that the Cost & Commercial Management function aligns with the business strategy and delivers exceptional technical and commercial outcomes in a highly regulated sector.

Role accountabilities

• Strategic Leadership—Lead the Cost & Commercial Management function for major defence sector developments, ensuring all activities align with business plans and the organization’s strategic objectives.
• Technical & Commercial Oversight—Oversee cost planning, procurement, contract administration, risk and value management, and financial reporting for highly complex, secure projects.
• Team Management & Development—Build, mentor, and lead multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of performance, accountability, and ongoing professional development.
• Client & Stakeholder Engagement—Cultivate strong relationships with defence clients, government agencies, contractors, and consultants; represent the organization in high-level meetings, negotiations, and industry forums, nationally and internationally.
• Risk, Security & Compliance—Identify, assess, and mitigate commercial and contractual risks unique to the defence sector, including security and confidentiality requirements; ensure compliance with statutory, regulatory, and security frameworks.
• Continuous Improvement—Promote a culture of continuous improvement and lessons learned across defence projects; drive innovation and integration of digital and data-driven solutions in commercial management.

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualifications: Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Engineering, or related field. RICS, ACostE, or equivalent professional accreditation preferred.
• Experience: Significant senior experience in cost and commercial management for major defence, security, or government projects (national/international). Experience with MOD, DIO, or similar bodies highly regarded.
• Technical Skills: Deep knowledge of defence procurement, contract forms (NEC, FIDIC, JCT, etc.), security protocols, and industry regulations.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead large, diverse teams in complex, highly regulated environments.
• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills with senior government and industry stakeholders.
• Security Clearance: Eligible for (or holds) relevant Defence sector security clearance.

Why Arcadis?

We can only achieve our goals when everyone is empowered to be their best. We believe everyone’s contribution matters. We are pioneering a skills-based approach, where you can harness your unique experience and expertise to carve your career path and maximize the impact we can make together. You’ll do meaningful work and help deliver sustainable solutions for a more prosperous planet.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Other

Industries

• Professional Services