Senior Subcontract Buyer

602710
  • £40 - £50 per hour
  • Luton, England
  • Contract

A highly reputable defence client based in Luton are seeking an experienced Senior Subcontract Buyer to support their Global Combat Air Programme Procurement team.

  • Role: Senior Subcontract Buyer
  • Location: Luton (2/3 days onsite)
  • Duration: 6-month contract
  • Pay: Up to £50 p/hr (Inside IR35)

As a Senior Subcontract Buyer, you will play a vital role managing a portfolio of sub‑contracts, supporting bidding activity, and ensuring execution excellence.

Key Responsibilities

  • Generate Procurement inputs for bids and business‑winning activities.
  • Build effective relationships with internal stakeholders to drive successful outcomes.
  • Translate project or customer requirements into clear Procurement documentation.
  • Procure Commercial Off‑The‑Shelf (COTS) items for development programmes.
  • Develop, negotiate, and manage contracts using both standard and non‑standard formats.
  • Oversee supplier performance and ensure contract delivery meets expectations.
  • Assess and mitigate commercial risks when forming supplier agreements.
  • Ensure appropriate commercial protections are in place (NDAs, Export Licences, etc.).

Ideal role for an experienced procurement professional, with proven Aerospace or Defence sector knowledge, who thrives in a fast‑paced, multi‑disciplinary environment.

Key Skills & Experience

  • Procurement experience in Defence/Aerospace environments
  • Understanding of contract lifecycles and commercial awareness.
  • Ability to develop, negotiate, and manage contracts
  • Understanding of complex agreements (NDAs, SLAs & Export licenses)
  • Skilled in bids, proposals, and customer negotiations
  • Solid understanding of commercial and legal principles relating to contracting in Defence/Aerospace.

If you are local to Luton and looking for a new interim opportunity in the Defence sector - Apply Now!

Ben Nethersole Recruitment Consultant

Apply for this role