Terms of Reference (TOR): Cookware OEM Partnership Consultant, WESTERN EUROPE Scope: UK&I, France, DACH, Nordics, Benelux, Iberia and Italy Duration: 3 months (with possibility of extension subject to performance) Location: UK, France, Germany or the Netherlands - with the ability to travel across the region. Reporting Line: Head: Partnerships and Business Development Background and Objectives Founded in 2013, BURN Manufacturing is a mission-driven consumer goods company that designs, manufactures, and distributes clean cooking appliances and premium cookware for underserved households in emerging markets. Revenues generated through BURN's commercial activities in Europe and North America directly subsidise and scale clean cooking access across Africa, enabling millions of households to transition to safer and more sustainable cooking solutions. BURN has commissioned the largest-and currently the only-stainless steel cookware manufacturing facility in Sub Saharan Africa. This vertically integrated facility enables the production of high quality, cost competitive cookware products that meet international quality standards while delivering measurable social impact. To leverage this manufacturing capability, BURN seeks to establish original equipment manufacturing (OEM) partnerships with leading retailers in Western Europe. The objective is to co develop and/or manufacture sustainability themed cookware products for private label or exclusive retail brands, aligned with growing consumer demand for ethical sourcing and environmentally responsible products. BURN is therefore seeking experienced consultants with established retail networks in Western Europe to originate, structure, and close three to five (3-5) strategic OEM partnerships. These partnerships are expected to result in signed pilot sales contracts or full scale manufacturing and supply agreements in advance of Q3 2026. Scope of Work The consultant will support BURN in originating, structuring, and closing OEM cookware partnerships with retailers in Western Europe. This engagement is explicitly commercial in nature and focused on measurable outcomes. Conducting primary research-led assessment of the cookware OEM landscape, informed by direct retailer and industry engagement. Mapping priority retailer targets across modern trade and speciality retail channels, including decision makers and sourcing structures. Defining compelling OEM value propositions for BURN, including product positioning, pricing, and volume thresholds. Leading senior level commercial engagement with shortlisted retailers-outreach, pitch development, negotiation, and deal structuring. Co ordinating with BURN's internal commercial, manufacturing, and technical teams to ensure feasibility, costing accuracy, and pilot or commercial readiness. Supporting the transition from signed contracts to operational handover for Q3 2026 execution. Deliverables Cookware OEM Landscape Report - concise, insight led, and explicitly linked to commercial decision making. The report must include: Demand Assessment: How leading retailers source private label stainless steel cookware, OEM sourcing models, decision criteria, buying cycles, category performance, margin expectations, MOQs, and sustainability related price premiums. Compliance Expectations: ESG, traceability, and certification requirements retailers expect from cookware suppliers. Competitor Analysis: Key competing OEMs supplying private label or exclusive cookware programs, sourcing geographies, cost positioning, sustainability propositions, and perceived strengths/weaknesses. Commercial White Spaces: Where BURN is competitively advantaged or disadvantaged, including target retailer profiles, product categories, volume bands, and partnership structures. Strategic Implications: Recommendations for product specifications, OEM pitch narrative, target retailer shortlist, and deal structuring. Closed Pilot Sales / Commercial Agreements - origin, negotiate, and close formal, signed pilot sales or full scale manufacturing contracts with a minimum of three (3) major or mid sized retailers. Each pilot agreement must be structured for pilot execution in Q3 2026, with defined pilot volumes (minimum of 1 40ft container), production readiness milestones, and implementation timelines. Cover private label or co branded exclusive sustainability themed cookware offerings. Define performance KPIs jointly tracked by BURN and the retailer, with explicit criteria for progression to large scale commercial rollout in Q4 2026 / Q1 2027. Codify key commercial and trade terms for the post pilot rollout phase, including pricing frameworks, payment terms, MOQs, key operational and quality requirements, and indicative annual demand assumptions. Qualified Retailer Pipeline and Deal Tracker - a structured and actively managed pipeline covering at least 2/3 of tier 1 and tier 2 modern trade retailers and major kitchenware / houseware specialty chains across Western Europe. Shortlisted target retailers with engagement status. Assessment of commercial attractiveness - expected volumes, strategic fit, etc. Probability of conversion, indicative timelines, and clearly defined next steps. Inclusion only of retailers that have progressed beyond initial contact and engaged in a formal pitch or meeting with an economic buyer. OEM Partnership Playbook - practical, reusable document detailing: Standard OEM pitch narrative and value proposition. Recommended deal structures by partner type. Key objections and recommended responses. Lessons learned to inform future in house business development. Milestones and Payments - timeline, payment share, and acceptance criteria for each deliverable (see milestone table below). Milestones Cookware OEM Landscape Report - Within 30 days from contract signature. Payment Share: 25%. Description & Acceptance Criteria: Delivery of a concise, decision oriented report grounded in primary research and direct industry engagement, meeting all requirements noted above. Qualified Retailer Pipeline & Deal Tracker - Within 30-45 days after delivery and approval of milestone 1. Payment Share: 40%. Description & Acceptance Criteria: Demonstration of active commercial engagement with retailers, evidence of a structured pipeline: outreach to at least 75-80% of tier 1 and tier 2 retailers in the region; Minimum 10% at closing/contracting stage; Min 40% at active negotiation stage; No more than 50% at discovery or proposal stage. Closed Pilot Sales and/or Commercial Agreements - Within 30-45 days following delivery and approval of milestone 2. Payment Share: 35%. Description & Acceptance Criteria: Fully executed binding pilot sales contracts with a minimum of three major or mid sized retailers, meeting all requirements set out in the TOR. OEM Partnership Playbook - same timeline and payment share as milestone 3 (35%). Consultant Profile - Required Experience Minimum seven (7) years of relevant commercial experience in cookware, housewares, or adjacent consumer goods categories. Demonstrated success in originating, structuring, and closing OEM, private label, or exclusive retail partnerships with mid sized to large retailers. Hands on experience negotiating commercial contracts, including pricing frameworks, MOQs, trade terms, and pilot to scale transitions. Established, active relationships with category managers, sourcing managers, or private label decision makers within modern trade and specialty retail channels in Western Europe. Multi market exposure is a significant advantage. Technical & Commercial Competencies Deep understanding of retailer sourcing models, private label economics, and decision making processes. Strong grasp of cookware category dynamics - stainless steel manufacturing, quality standards, sustainability led positioning. Ability to translate market and competitor intelligence into clear, commercially actionable recommendations. Proven capability to manage senior level commercial engagements independently and credibly represent BURN. Personal Attributes Highly execution oriented, with a clear bias toward closing deals rather than producing reports. Commercially pragmatic, structured, and outcome focused. Comfortable operating with limited supervision and coordinating across technical, manufacturing, and commercial teams. Strong communication and negotiation skills, aligning mission driven narratives with retailer commercial priorities. Engagement Duration The engagement is expected to run for three (3) months, commencing upon contract signature. The timeline may be adjusted by mutual agreement based on commercial traction, retailer decision cycles, and deal maturity. Reporting & Governance The consultant will report directly to BURN's designated senior commercial lead and will work closely with BURN's business development, manufacturing, and technical teams. Kick off alignment meeting within one week of contract signature. Bi weekly progress updates covering retailer engagement status, pipeline progression, risks, and mitigation actions. Ad hoc working sessions to support deal structuring and pilot readiness. . click apply for full job details
Feb 24, 2026
Full time
Terms of Reference (TOR): Cookware OEM Partnership Consultant, WESTERN EUROPE Scope: UK&I, France, DACH, Nordics, Benelux, Iberia and Italy Duration: 3 months (with possibility of extension subject to performance) Location: UK, France, Germany or the Netherlands - with the ability to travel across the region. Reporting Line: Head: Partnerships and Business Development Background and Objectives Founded in 2013, BURN Manufacturing is a mission-driven consumer goods company that designs, manufactures, and distributes clean cooking appliances and premium cookware for underserved households in emerging markets. Revenues generated through BURN's commercial activities in Europe and North America directly subsidise and scale clean cooking access across Africa, enabling millions of households to transition to safer and more sustainable cooking solutions. BURN has commissioned the largest-and currently the only-stainless steel cookware manufacturing facility in Sub Saharan Africa. This vertically integrated facility enables the production of high quality, cost competitive cookware products that meet international quality standards while delivering measurable social impact. To leverage this manufacturing capability, BURN seeks to establish original equipment manufacturing (OEM) partnerships with leading retailers in Western Europe. The objective is to co develop and/or manufacture sustainability themed cookware products for private label or exclusive retail brands, aligned with growing consumer demand for ethical sourcing and environmentally responsible products. BURN is therefore seeking experienced consultants with established retail networks in Western Europe to originate, structure, and close three to five (3-5) strategic OEM partnerships. These partnerships are expected to result in signed pilot sales contracts or full scale manufacturing and supply agreements in advance of Q3 2026. Scope of Work The consultant will support BURN in originating, structuring, and closing OEM cookware partnerships with retailers in Western Europe. This engagement is explicitly commercial in nature and focused on measurable outcomes. Conducting primary research-led assessment of the cookware OEM landscape, informed by direct retailer and industry engagement. Mapping priority retailer targets across modern trade and speciality retail channels, including decision makers and sourcing structures. Defining compelling OEM value propositions for BURN, including product positioning, pricing, and volume thresholds. Leading senior level commercial engagement with shortlisted retailers-outreach, pitch development, negotiation, and deal structuring. Co ordinating with BURN's internal commercial, manufacturing, and technical teams to ensure feasibility, costing accuracy, and pilot or commercial readiness. Supporting the transition from signed contracts to operational handover for Q3 2026 execution. Deliverables Cookware OEM Landscape Report - concise, insight led, and explicitly linked to commercial decision making. The report must include: Demand Assessment: How leading retailers source private label stainless steel cookware, OEM sourcing models, decision criteria, buying cycles, category performance, margin expectations, MOQs, and sustainability related price premiums. Compliance Expectations: ESG, traceability, and certification requirements retailers expect from cookware suppliers. Competitor Analysis: Key competing OEMs supplying private label or exclusive cookware programs, sourcing geographies, cost positioning, sustainability propositions, and perceived strengths/weaknesses. Commercial White Spaces: Where BURN is competitively advantaged or disadvantaged, including target retailer profiles, product categories, volume bands, and partnership structures. Strategic Implications: Recommendations for product specifications, OEM pitch narrative, target retailer shortlist, and deal structuring. Closed Pilot Sales / Commercial Agreements - origin, negotiate, and close formal, signed pilot sales or full scale manufacturing contracts with a minimum of three (3) major or mid sized retailers. Each pilot agreement must be structured for pilot execution in Q3 2026, with defined pilot volumes (minimum of 1 40ft container), production readiness milestones, and implementation timelines. Cover private label or co branded exclusive sustainability themed cookware offerings. Define performance KPIs jointly tracked by BURN and the retailer, with explicit criteria for progression to large scale commercial rollout in Q4 2026 / Q1 2027. Codify key commercial and trade terms for the post pilot rollout phase, including pricing frameworks, payment terms, MOQs, key operational and quality requirements, and indicative annual demand assumptions. Qualified Retailer Pipeline and Deal Tracker - a structured and actively managed pipeline covering at least 2/3 of tier 1 and tier 2 modern trade retailers and major kitchenware / houseware specialty chains across Western Europe. Shortlisted target retailers with engagement status. Assessment of commercial attractiveness - expected volumes, strategic fit, etc. Probability of conversion, indicative timelines, and clearly defined next steps. Inclusion only of retailers that have progressed beyond initial contact and engaged in a formal pitch or meeting with an economic buyer. OEM Partnership Playbook - practical, reusable document detailing: Standard OEM pitch narrative and value proposition. Recommended deal structures by partner type. Key objections and recommended responses. Lessons learned to inform future in house business development. Milestones and Payments - timeline, payment share, and acceptance criteria for each deliverable (see milestone table below). Milestones Cookware OEM Landscape Report - Within 30 days from contract signature. Payment Share: 25%. Description & Acceptance Criteria: Delivery of a concise, decision oriented report grounded in primary research and direct industry engagement, meeting all requirements noted above. Qualified Retailer Pipeline & Deal Tracker - Within 30-45 days after delivery and approval of milestone 1. Payment Share: 40%. Description & Acceptance Criteria: Demonstration of active commercial engagement with retailers, evidence of a structured pipeline: outreach to at least 75-80% of tier 1 and tier 2 retailers in the region; Minimum 10% at closing/contracting stage; Min 40% at active negotiation stage; No more than 50% at discovery or proposal stage. Closed Pilot Sales and/or Commercial Agreements - Within 30-45 days following delivery and approval of milestone 2. Payment Share: 35%. Description & Acceptance Criteria: Fully executed binding pilot sales contracts with a minimum of three major or mid sized retailers, meeting all requirements set out in the TOR. OEM Partnership Playbook - same timeline and payment share as milestone 3 (35%). Consultant Profile - Required Experience Minimum seven (7) years of relevant commercial experience in cookware, housewares, or adjacent consumer goods categories. Demonstrated success in originating, structuring, and closing OEM, private label, or exclusive retail partnerships with mid sized to large retailers. Hands on experience negotiating commercial contracts, including pricing frameworks, MOQs, trade terms, and pilot to scale transitions. Established, active relationships with category managers, sourcing managers, or private label decision makers within modern trade and specialty retail channels in Western Europe. Multi market exposure is a significant advantage. Technical & Commercial Competencies Deep understanding of retailer sourcing models, private label economics, and decision making processes. Strong grasp of cookware category dynamics - stainless steel manufacturing, quality standards, sustainability led positioning. Ability to translate market and competitor intelligence into clear, commercially actionable recommendations. Proven capability to manage senior level commercial engagements independently and credibly represent BURN. Personal Attributes Highly execution oriented, with a clear bias toward closing deals rather than producing reports. Commercially pragmatic, structured, and outcome focused. Comfortable operating with limited supervision and coordinating across technical, manufacturing, and commercial teams. Strong communication and negotiation skills, aligning mission driven narratives with retailer commercial priorities. Engagement Duration The engagement is expected to run for three (3) months, commencing upon contract signature. The timeline may be adjusted by mutual agreement based on commercial traction, retailer decision cycles, and deal maturity. Reporting & Governance The consultant will report directly to BURN's designated senior commercial lead and will work closely with BURN's business development, manufacturing, and technical teams. Kick off alignment meeting within one week of contract signature. Bi weekly progress updates covering retailer engagement status, pipeline progression, risks, and mitigation actions. Ad hoc working sessions to support deal structuring and pilot readiness. . click apply for full job details
UK Shared Business Services Ltd
Swindon, Wiltshire
Swindon, Wiltshire, United Kingdom (Hybrid) Job Info Job Category Research Programme and Funding Management Apply Before 03/15/2026, 11:55 PM Job Identification 2004 Posting Date 02/19/2026, 03:06 PM Job Shift Day Job Description UKRI Salary: £58,589 per annum. Band: UKRI Band F. Contract Type: 3 Year Fixed Term (With possibility of extension) Hours: Full Time or Part Time. (Minimum 0.8 FTE) Location: While UKRI supports hybrid working, the postholder will be required to attend one in office team day per week at Polaris House in Swindon, Wiltshire. Closing Date: Sunday 15 March 2026. Proposed Interview Date: Interviews are likely to be week commencing 06 and 13 April 2026. Employees applying for any opportunity which may mean being away from your substantive role for a temporary period of time, please refer to the Recruitment Policy and associated guidance for further information in the first instance. If you are made an offer, please ensure you liaise with your line manager and the designated HR team as soon as possible in order that implications of any move are clear and understood, prior to a move taking place. About the role We are looking for a Head of Service Delivery to join the UKRI Infrastructure Team and play a pivotal role in delivering the Next National Supercomputing Service (NNSS): the £750m project to ensure the UK scientific community retains access to the most advanced modelling and simulation capabilities through provision of state of the art compute hardware at the University of Edinburgh and service provision and software services to support users. The NNSS is the cornerstone investment at the heart of the DSIT UKRI compute roadmap, and a high priority strategic investment for the UK government. The Digital Research Infrastructure, Infrastructure Fund and Portfolio pillars form the cross cutting UKRI Infrastructure Team that coordinates and manages UKRI's Infrastructure portfolio. You will collaborate across the organisation and externally, engaging with relevant stakeholders in Government Departments, Public Sector Research Establishments (PSREs), academia and industry to gather insight and ensure that UKRI's plans for Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) enable our varied communities to use the most powerful digital tools and techniques. This role will be critical to successful delivery of the new service. You will work closely with the service providers, leading on successful implementation and management of the hardware and service provision contracts. You will lead on monitoring and evaluation to ensure the service fully delivers its intended benefits, as well as proactively looking for opportunities for continuous improvement, drawing on best practices from across the sector and major project management. We encourage candidates with an interest and knowledge in large scale compute and related aspects of DRI to apply for this position: relevant experience might have been gained from several different types of career path or educational background. It is likely that the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work for periods with other policy or technical teams within UKRI to enhance the knowledge needed for their work. For further information, please contact Richard Gunn, DRI Programme Director () or Luke Davis, Associate Director for Computational Services (). Your responsibilities: Ensuring that the NNSS service providers fulfil their agreed service requirements and managing any changes, including grant funding and/or contractual issues. Ensuring successful implementation of agreed governance, advisory and management structures, including coordination of the service providers. Ensuring that the NNSS service is effectively integrated within UKRI and DSIT's broader support for the compute ecosystem, including coordination with related initiatives such as National Compute Resources (NCRs) and EuroHPC and proactively seeking opportunities for improvement. Supporting the Head of Policy & Engagement in implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the NNSS service model to ensure successful delivery, including liaison with the host site, technology provider and other stakeholders involved in delivering the service. Driving working level relationships with infrastructure leads in government, the service providers and other key stakeholders. Developing an understanding of, and communicating, how our work aligns with and supports key national policies. Supporting the delivery of time bound strategic projects within the UKRI Infrastructure team. Person Specification The following criteria will be assessed at either Shortlisting (S), Interview (I), or both (S&I) Awareness and understanding of large scale compute services, including key technical concepts, their operation, and how they interact within the broader digital research infrastructure ecosystem, sufficient to guide policy, governance, and access related decisions. (S&I) Extensive experience of leading successful complex, high profile and fast moving infrastructural and/or technical projects ensuring delivery to agreed specifications, cost, time and quality standards. (S&I) Demonstrable ability to develop and integrate services, projects or programmes within wider strategic or policy landscapes, ideally within a national research or digital infrastructure context. (S&I) Experience developing and coordinating research or innovation communities, consortia, or multi institution partnerships. You must have the ability to build and sustain productive relationships internally and externally and represent UKRI, at all levels of seniority and across government, academic, policy and wider sectors. (S&I) Excellent oral and written communications skills. You must be comfortable in speaking publicly to audiences of varying sizes; be able to write clear, concise and effective technical reports; and be able to absorb and convey detailed information to/from technical and non technical audiences. (S&I) Able to prioritise and manage multiple commitments across a complex portfolio, applying creative and adaptive thinking to navigate ambiguity, resolve interdependent challenges, and make effective decisions. (S&I) Demonstrable ability to deal with critical and high profile issues, often working with external organisations, and handle risks independently, calling out to senior managers when required. Show high levels of personal drive, determination and resilience. (I) We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package. We are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning! A list of benefits below: 30 days' annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent). Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities. Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice. Flexible working options. Plus many more benefits and wellbeing initiatives that enable our employees to have a great work life balance! For further information on our benefits please see: UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer. Please apply online, if you experience any issue applying, please contact We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible, as we reserve the right to close this vacancy early. Please note if you would like to apply for our other NNSS role 'Head of Policy & Engagement', please submit a separate covering letter and CV for each post. Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager. For more information, please visit or contact . About Us UKRI - UK Research and Innovation UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world leading position in research and innovation. Supporting some of the world's most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world class research, skills and business led innovation. More information can be found at . Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI. How we support EDI in the workforce At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect . click apply for full job details
Feb 23, 2026
Full time
Swindon, Wiltshire, United Kingdom (Hybrid) Job Info Job Category Research Programme and Funding Management Apply Before 03/15/2026, 11:55 PM Job Identification 2004 Posting Date 02/19/2026, 03:06 PM Job Shift Day Job Description UKRI Salary: £58,589 per annum. Band: UKRI Band F. Contract Type: 3 Year Fixed Term (With possibility of extension) Hours: Full Time or Part Time. (Minimum 0.8 FTE) Location: While UKRI supports hybrid working, the postholder will be required to attend one in office team day per week at Polaris House in Swindon, Wiltshire. Closing Date: Sunday 15 March 2026. Proposed Interview Date: Interviews are likely to be week commencing 06 and 13 April 2026. Employees applying for any opportunity which may mean being away from your substantive role for a temporary period of time, please refer to the Recruitment Policy and associated guidance for further information in the first instance. If you are made an offer, please ensure you liaise with your line manager and the designated HR team as soon as possible in order that implications of any move are clear and understood, prior to a move taking place. About the role We are looking for a Head of Service Delivery to join the UKRI Infrastructure Team and play a pivotal role in delivering the Next National Supercomputing Service (NNSS): the £750m project to ensure the UK scientific community retains access to the most advanced modelling and simulation capabilities through provision of state of the art compute hardware at the University of Edinburgh and service provision and software services to support users. The NNSS is the cornerstone investment at the heart of the DSIT UKRI compute roadmap, and a high priority strategic investment for the UK government. The Digital Research Infrastructure, Infrastructure Fund and Portfolio pillars form the cross cutting UKRI Infrastructure Team that coordinates and manages UKRI's Infrastructure portfolio. You will collaborate across the organisation and externally, engaging with relevant stakeholders in Government Departments, Public Sector Research Establishments (PSREs), academia and industry to gather insight and ensure that UKRI's plans for Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) enable our varied communities to use the most powerful digital tools and techniques. This role will be critical to successful delivery of the new service. You will work closely with the service providers, leading on successful implementation and management of the hardware and service provision contracts. You will lead on monitoring and evaluation to ensure the service fully delivers its intended benefits, as well as proactively looking for opportunities for continuous improvement, drawing on best practices from across the sector and major project management. We encourage candidates with an interest and knowledge in large scale compute and related aspects of DRI to apply for this position: relevant experience might have been gained from several different types of career path or educational background. It is likely that the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work for periods with other policy or technical teams within UKRI to enhance the knowledge needed for their work. For further information, please contact Richard Gunn, DRI Programme Director () or Luke Davis, Associate Director for Computational Services (). Your responsibilities: Ensuring that the NNSS service providers fulfil their agreed service requirements and managing any changes, including grant funding and/or contractual issues. Ensuring successful implementation of agreed governance, advisory and management structures, including coordination of the service providers. Ensuring that the NNSS service is effectively integrated within UKRI and DSIT's broader support for the compute ecosystem, including coordination with related initiatives such as National Compute Resources (NCRs) and EuroHPC and proactively seeking opportunities for improvement. Supporting the Head of Policy & Engagement in implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the NNSS service model to ensure successful delivery, including liaison with the host site, technology provider and other stakeholders involved in delivering the service. Driving working level relationships with infrastructure leads in government, the service providers and other key stakeholders. Developing an understanding of, and communicating, how our work aligns with and supports key national policies. Supporting the delivery of time bound strategic projects within the UKRI Infrastructure team. Person Specification The following criteria will be assessed at either Shortlisting (S), Interview (I), or both (S&I) Awareness and understanding of large scale compute services, including key technical concepts, their operation, and how they interact within the broader digital research infrastructure ecosystem, sufficient to guide policy, governance, and access related decisions. (S&I) Extensive experience of leading successful complex, high profile and fast moving infrastructural and/or technical projects ensuring delivery to agreed specifications, cost, time and quality standards. (S&I) Demonstrable ability to develop and integrate services, projects or programmes within wider strategic or policy landscapes, ideally within a national research or digital infrastructure context. (S&I) Experience developing and coordinating research or innovation communities, consortia, or multi institution partnerships. You must have the ability to build and sustain productive relationships internally and externally and represent UKRI, at all levels of seniority and across government, academic, policy and wider sectors. (S&I) Excellent oral and written communications skills. You must be comfortable in speaking publicly to audiences of varying sizes; be able to write clear, concise and effective technical reports; and be able to absorb and convey detailed information to/from technical and non technical audiences. (S&I) Able to prioritise and manage multiple commitments across a complex portfolio, applying creative and adaptive thinking to navigate ambiguity, resolve interdependent challenges, and make effective decisions. (S&I) Demonstrable ability to deal with critical and high profile issues, often working with external organisations, and handle risks independently, calling out to senior managers when required. Show high levels of personal drive, determination and resilience. (I) We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package. We are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning! A list of benefits below: 30 days' annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent). Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities. Employee assistance programme, providing confidential help and advice. Flexible working options. Plus many more benefits and wellbeing initiatives that enable our employees to have a great work life balance! For further information on our benefits please see: UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer. Please apply online, if you experience any issue applying, please contact We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible, as we reserve the right to close this vacancy early. Please note if you would like to apply for our other NNSS role 'Head of Policy & Engagement', please submit a separate covering letter and CV for each post. Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, or all of these fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager. For more information, please visit or contact . About Us UKRI - UK Research and Innovation UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world leading position in research and innovation. Supporting some of the world's most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world class research, skills and business led innovation. More information can be found at . Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI. How we support EDI in the workforce At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect . click apply for full job details
Category Manager - Engineering & Capital Projects(CAPEX) National Field-Based / Home-Based c 65,000 + Car Allowance + Bonus + Benefits A major UK industrial group is seeking an experienced Category Manager - Engineering & Capital Projects to lead end-to-end procurement across a substantial and growing portfolio of capital projects. This is a high-visibility, stakeholder-facing role partnering with engineering and project teams nationwide to ensure strong governance, commercial value, risk mitigation and compliant delivery across a complex capital investment programme. The Opportunity Capital investment is accelerating significantly, with annual CAPEX rising towards 200m and a live portfolio of over 1000 projects at any one time. This role operates within the core delivery band of projects typically valued between 0.5m and 3m, where you will take direct procurement ownership. Projects above this band are supported at Group level, but you may interface where required. Given the volume and scale of investment, success in this role requires intelligent prioritisation, pipeline ownership and the ability to embed structured processes that enable safe and compliant "self-serve" activity within the wider project community. Key Responsibilities Lead capital procurement activity for a portfolio of projects typically within the 0.5m- 3m range, prioritising effectively to maximise commercial impact. Own the sourcing lifecycle once projects reach procurement stage: tendering, negotiation, contracting, governance and delivery follow-through. Partner closely with engineering and project stakeholders nationally, maintaining visible engagement and ensuring procurement governance remains embedded. Apply structured sourcing discipline and robust commercial thinking, including risk management, payment structures, contract controls and total cost of ownership evaluation. Embed practical tools and capability within the business (e.g., contract templates, guardrails, foundational guidance) to reduce risk where direct procurement involvement is not feasible. Operate confidently in a large, complex organisation where approvals may take time; maintain resilience and momentum across multiple concurrent projects. What We Are Looking For Proven CAPEX procurement experience, with clear evidence of leading sourcing events and negotiating commercial agreements within capital projects. Strong appreciation that "specification is king" in capital environments, with the ability to challenge and shape scope before tender. Experience selecting and managing EPC, turnkey or multi-lot contracting strategies. Desirable familiarity with model-form contracts such as NEC and/or FIDIC. Strong stakeholder management capability - visible, proactive, assertive and commercially credible. Experience within heavy industry, construction materials, utilities, chemicals or large multi-site manufacturing environments is highly advantageous. Transferable CAPEX backgrounds will be considered where governance and contracting exposure is strong. This role requires drive and self-motivation. You will not be handed a weekly project list - you must build and manage your own pipeline and remain front and centre with project teams. Location & Travel This is a National Field-Based / Home-Based role. There is no expectation of daily head office attendance. Success is driven by engagement with project stakeholders across the UK, with travel ranging from Scotland to the South Coast depending on project location. Candidates should ideally be centrally located with strong motorway/rail connectivity, but flexibility exists provided national travel is acceptable. Package c 65,000 base salary Car allowance (c 7,500) or company car 15% bonus Private medical (family cover) Full blue-chip benefits package Why you should apply? The breadth of capital exposure, scale of investment and long-term career platform within a major industrial group offer significant professional development opportunity.
Feb 20, 2026
Full time
Category Manager - Engineering & Capital Projects(CAPEX) National Field-Based / Home-Based c 65,000 + Car Allowance + Bonus + Benefits A major UK industrial group is seeking an experienced Category Manager - Engineering & Capital Projects to lead end-to-end procurement across a substantial and growing portfolio of capital projects. This is a high-visibility, stakeholder-facing role partnering with engineering and project teams nationwide to ensure strong governance, commercial value, risk mitigation and compliant delivery across a complex capital investment programme. The Opportunity Capital investment is accelerating significantly, with annual CAPEX rising towards 200m and a live portfolio of over 1000 projects at any one time. This role operates within the core delivery band of projects typically valued between 0.5m and 3m, where you will take direct procurement ownership. Projects above this band are supported at Group level, but you may interface where required. Given the volume and scale of investment, success in this role requires intelligent prioritisation, pipeline ownership and the ability to embed structured processes that enable safe and compliant "self-serve" activity within the wider project community. Key Responsibilities Lead capital procurement activity for a portfolio of projects typically within the 0.5m- 3m range, prioritising effectively to maximise commercial impact. Own the sourcing lifecycle once projects reach procurement stage: tendering, negotiation, contracting, governance and delivery follow-through. Partner closely with engineering and project stakeholders nationally, maintaining visible engagement and ensuring procurement governance remains embedded. Apply structured sourcing discipline and robust commercial thinking, including risk management, payment structures, contract controls and total cost of ownership evaluation. Embed practical tools and capability within the business (e.g., contract templates, guardrails, foundational guidance) to reduce risk where direct procurement involvement is not feasible. Operate confidently in a large, complex organisation where approvals may take time; maintain resilience and momentum across multiple concurrent projects. What We Are Looking For Proven CAPEX procurement experience, with clear evidence of leading sourcing events and negotiating commercial agreements within capital projects. Strong appreciation that "specification is king" in capital environments, with the ability to challenge and shape scope before tender. Experience selecting and managing EPC, turnkey or multi-lot contracting strategies. Desirable familiarity with model-form contracts such as NEC and/or FIDIC. Strong stakeholder management capability - visible, proactive, assertive and commercially credible. Experience within heavy industry, construction materials, utilities, chemicals or large multi-site manufacturing environments is highly advantageous. Transferable CAPEX backgrounds will be considered where governance and contracting exposure is strong. This role requires drive and self-motivation. You will not be handed a weekly project list - you must build and manage your own pipeline and remain front and centre with project teams. Location & Travel This is a National Field-Based / Home-Based role. There is no expectation of daily head office attendance. Success is driven by engagement with project stakeholders across the UK, with travel ranging from Scotland to the South Coast depending on project location. Candidates should ideally be centrally located with strong motorway/rail connectivity, but flexibility exists provided national travel is acceptable. Package c 65,000 base salary Car allowance (c 7,500) or company car 15% bonus Private medical (family cover) Full blue-chip benefits package Why you should apply? The breadth of capital exposure, scale of investment and long-term career platform within a major industrial group offer significant professional development opportunity.
UK Shared Business Services Ltd
Swindon, Wiltshire
Swindon, Wiltshire, United Kingdom (Hybrid) Job Info Job Category Digital Data and Technology Apply Before 03/08/2026, 11:55 PM Job Identification 1983 Posting Date 02/13/2026, 04:51 PM Job Shift Day Hours Full Time/ Part Time Job Description UKRI Corporate Hub - CIO group Salary:£70,752per annum. Band:UKRI BandG. Contract Type:Fixed Term (18 Months) Hours:Full-time/ Part Time. (minimum0.8FTE)(flexible working available) Location:Polaris House, Swindon,Wiltshireor BGS, Keyworth, Nottingham- Hybrid working available. Closing Date:Sunday 8th March 2026. About the role The Head of IT Finance and Sourcing providesoperationalleadership and oversight of financial planning, commercial management, and procurement activities within theDDaTfunction. The role ensures that IT investments deliver value for money,comply withgovernment financial and commercial standards, and supportorganisationalpriorities. The postholder will lead on budget management, supplier engagement, contract governance, and costoptimisation, working collaboratively across IT, Finance, and Procurement teams. This role is pivotal in enabling effective delivery of IT services, whilemaintainingrobust financial controls and commercial assurance. Key areas of accountability Strategic Financial Management:Lead the development, monitoring, and reporting of the IT budget, ensuring alignment with organisationalobjectivesand public sector financial regulations. Value for Money and Cost Control:Identifyopportunities for cost savings and efficiency across the IT portfolio, ensuring public funds are used effectively and responsibly. Governance and Assurance: Ensure financial and commercial activities meet internal governance standards and external audit requirements, including compliance with Managing Public Money and commercial assurance frameworks. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with senior leaders, programme teams, and external partners to ensure financial and sourcing strategies support wider organisational and government priorities. Risk and Resilience:Monitorfinancial and commercial risks, implementing mitigation strategies and ensuring continuity of service. Team Leadership and Capability Building: Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Performance Reporting:Establishand maintain KPIs and dashboards to track financial performance, IT procurement progress, and efficiencies, informing decision-making and transparency. The role includes line management of a small team and reports into the DeputyDirectorBusiness Management. Personal Specification The below criteria will be scored during Shortlisting (S), Interview (I)or both (S&I). Proven experience in leading finance and/or commercial functions within a complex organisation.(S) Strong understanding of public sectorfinancial management, including budgeting, forecasting,reportingand delivering value formoney. (S&I) Demonstrable experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiation.(S&I) Knowledge of public procurement regulations and frameworks (e.g. Procurement Act 2023 - PA2023 , CCS frameworks).(S) Ability to interpret and apply government financial and commercial guidance (e.g. Managing Public Money).(S&I) Excellentability to build effective relationships withstakeholders,influence decision-making, and communicate complex information clearly.(S&I) Leadership and People Management: Ability to lead and inspire teams, manage performance, and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. (S&I) High levelof integrity, accountability, and commitment to public service values.(S) Strategic Thinking: Evidence of strategic planning and decision-making in financial and commercial contexts.(I) Delivery Focus: Track record of delivering outcomes in complex environments, managing competing priorities, and drivingefficiency. (I) We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package. We are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning! A list of benefits below: 30 days' annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent). Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities. Employeeassistanceprogramme, providing confidential help and advice. Flexible working options. Plusmany more benefits and wellbeing initiatives that enable our employees to havea great worklife balance! For further information on our benefits please see: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer. Please apply online, if you experience any issue applying, please contact . Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, orall ofthese fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager. For more information, please visit or . About Us UKRI - UK Research and Innovation UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation. Supporting some of the world's most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation. More information can be found at . Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI . How we support EDI in the workforce At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit 'How we support EDI in the workforce'. Disability Confident Employer As users of the disability confident scheme, any candidate who opts into the scheme and best meets the essential criteria, will be shortlisted for interview. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. How to apply Online applications only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the 'experience' section of the application. UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion - a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us. The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.
Feb 17, 2026
Full time
Swindon, Wiltshire, United Kingdom (Hybrid) Job Info Job Category Digital Data and Technology Apply Before 03/08/2026, 11:55 PM Job Identification 1983 Posting Date 02/13/2026, 04:51 PM Job Shift Day Hours Full Time/ Part Time Job Description UKRI Corporate Hub - CIO group Salary:£70,752per annum. Band:UKRI BandG. Contract Type:Fixed Term (18 Months) Hours:Full-time/ Part Time. (minimum0.8FTE)(flexible working available) Location:Polaris House, Swindon,Wiltshireor BGS, Keyworth, Nottingham- Hybrid working available. Closing Date:Sunday 8th March 2026. About the role The Head of IT Finance and Sourcing providesoperationalleadership and oversight of financial planning, commercial management, and procurement activities within theDDaTfunction. The role ensures that IT investments deliver value for money,comply withgovernment financial and commercial standards, and supportorganisationalpriorities. The postholder will lead on budget management, supplier engagement, contract governance, and costoptimisation, working collaboratively across IT, Finance, and Procurement teams. This role is pivotal in enabling effective delivery of IT services, whilemaintainingrobust financial controls and commercial assurance. Key areas of accountability Strategic Financial Management:Lead the development, monitoring, and reporting of the IT budget, ensuring alignment with organisationalobjectivesand public sector financial regulations. Value for Money and Cost Control:Identifyopportunities for cost savings and efficiency across the IT portfolio, ensuring public funds are used effectively and responsibly. Governance and Assurance: Ensure financial and commercial activities meet internal governance standards and external audit requirements, including compliance with Managing Public Money and commercial assurance frameworks. Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with senior leaders, programme teams, and external partners to ensure financial and sourcing strategies support wider organisational and government priorities. Risk and Resilience:Monitorfinancial and commercial risks, implementing mitigation strategies and ensuring continuity of service. Team Leadership and Capability Building: Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Performance Reporting:Establishand maintain KPIs and dashboards to track financial performance, IT procurement progress, and efficiencies, informing decision-making and transparency. The role includes line management of a small team and reports into the DeputyDirectorBusiness Management. Personal Specification The below criteria will be scored during Shortlisting (S), Interview (I)or both (S&I). Proven experience in leading finance and/or commercial functions within a complex organisation.(S) Strong understanding of public sectorfinancial management, including budgeting, forecasting,reportingand delivering value formoney. (S&I) Demonstrable experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management, and contract negotiation.(S&I) Knowledge of public procurement regulations and frameworks (e.g. Procurement Act 2023 - PA2023 , CCS frameworks).(S) Ability to interpret and apply government financial and commercial guidance (e.g. Managing Public Money).(S&I) Excellentability to build effective relationships withstakeholders,influence decision-making, and communicate complex information clearly.(S&I) Leadership and People Management: Ability to lead and inspire teams, manage performance, and foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. (S&I) High levelof integrity, accountability, and commitment to public service values.(S) Strategic Thinking: Evidence of strategic planning and decision-making in financial and commercial contexts.(I) Delivery Focus: Track record of delivering outcomes in complex environments, managing competing priorities, and drivingefficiency. (I) We recognise and value our employees as individuals and aim to provide a favourable pay and rewards package. We are committed to supporting employees' development and promote a culture of continuous learning! A list of benefits below: 30 days' annual leave in addition to 10.5 public and privilege days (full time equivalent). Employee discounts and offers on retail and leisure activities. Employeeassistanceprogramme, providing confidential help and advice. Flexible working options. Plusmany more benefits and wellbeing initiatives that enable our employees to havea great worklife balance! For further information on our benefits please see: Benefits of working at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) UKRI is an Equal Opportunity & Disability Confident Employer. Please apply online, if you experience any issue applying, please contact . Please note, if you will require sponsorship to work in the UK, as part of your sponsorship application, you and any dependants travelling with you, will be required to pay costs directly to The Home Office for the application before you start your role with us. UKRI is normally able to reimburse some, orall ofthese fees after you have become an employee and this can be discussed with the Hiring Manager. For more information, please visit or . About Us UKRI - UK Research and Innovation UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation. Supporting some of the world's most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation. More information can be found at . Choosing to come to work at UKRI means that you will have access to a whole host of benefits from a defined benefit pension scheme, excellent holiday entitlement, access to employee shopping/travel discounts and salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme. For more details, visit benefits of working for UKRI . How we support EDI in the workforce At UKRI, we believe that everyone has a right to be treated with dignity and respect, and to be provided with equal opportunities to thrive and succeed in an environment that enables them to do so. We also value diversity of thought and experience within inclusive groups, organisations and the wider community. For further information, please visit 'How we support EDI in the workforce'. Disability Confident Employer As users of the disability confident scheme, any candidate who opts into the scheme and best meets the essential criteria, will be shortlisted for interview. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. How to apply Online applications only preferred for this role. Please submit a CV and covering letter which clearly outlines how you fulfil the criteria specified along with your motivation for UKRI and the role. Ensure that the job reference number is included in the filename description of each document uploaded. Note that failure to address the above criteria or submit an application without a covering letter may result in the application not being considered. Assessment will only be based upon the content of your submitted covering letter and CV and not the 'experience' section of the application. UKRI seeks to ensure it creates and maintains a system of openness, fairness and inclusion - a collaborative, trusted environment, which is attractive to and accessible to everyone who is interested in developing their career with us. The role holder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or re-run security clearance as required during the course of employment.
