We’re making a difference: Together, we can ensure that there is enough water for everyone, now and in the future.
Portsmouth Water is looking for a Commercial Business Partner to support its capital delivery programs through expert NEC contract and cost management. In this key role, you'll provide commercial oversight, ensure effective contract administration, and help manage risk to deliver high-quality, compliant, and value-for-money projects.
You'll also contribute to building a high-performing commercial function that drives strong commercial controls and maximises value in collaboration with our strategic contract partners and wider supply chain. Operating within the Asset Directorate, the commercial team oversees NEC contract management, cost assurance, and quality control, drawing on both internal expertise and partner capabilities.
What will you be doing?
Key Responsibilities
Supporting project management teams to ensure projects are delivered according to specifications and budget, while adhering to key deadlines and maintaining quality standards that meet stakeholder expectations.
Administer NEC contracts, encompassing drafting, negotiation, change management, and compensation events, in accordance with company policies and procedures
Assist the Commercial Manager in complex negotiations and contract issues.
Monitor contractor performance and compliance with contract requirements.
Manage cost forecasting, project budget monitoring, and financial reporting.
Lead on day-to-day contract compliance activities for key capital projects and provide guidance on best practices
Identify, evaluate, minimise or mitigate commercial and contract risks, with the capability to escalate issues as necessary, based on perceived severity and impact.
Provide Regular Management Information (MI): Ensure timely dissemination of management information to facilitate informed decision-making among senior stakeholders.
Support Project Gateway Approvals and Commercial Assurance Reviews: Contribute to the approval process and provide support in reviewing commercial aspects of projects identifying areas of value-add.
Support Project Teams and Stakeholders: Provide support to project teams, including supply chain partners and internal stakeholders, on commercial matters.
Develop and Maintain Strong Relationships with Contractors and SCPs: Foster and maintain robust working relationships with contractors and subcontractors.
Provide Support, Guidance, and Development of the wider Commercial Assurance team: Offer support, mentorship, and professional development.
Represent Commercial Assurance in Project and Programme Meetings: Participate in project and programme meetings to represent Commercial Assurance’s interests.
Act as a delegate for the Commercial Manager where required
What do you need?
Skills, Qualifications & Competencies
Strong Knowledge of NEC Contracts and Contract Management Processes: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of NEC contracts and the associated contract management procedures.
Demonstratable and relevant experience in the commercial or procurement field
Proven Experience in Contract Negotiation, Administration, and Cost Management: Possess extensive experience in contract negotiation, administration, and cost management.
Strong Analytical, Risk Management, and Problem-Solving Abilities: Exhibit exceptional analytical, risk management, and problem-solving skills.
Effective Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Can demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, with experience in stakeholder management.
Proficiency in Contract Management Systems (e.g., CEMAR, IFS or equivalent)
We recognise people want to work in a variety of different ways, and that’s why we’re happy to consider flexible working arrangements. Please feel free to talk to us at interview about the flexibility you may be looking for.
We’re committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we actively encourage applications from all sections of society.
Please note, the Company has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we’re unable to respond to every applicant individually. If your application is of interest, we’ll usually be in touch within 4 weeks of receiving it.
What can Portsmouth Water offer you?
At Portsmouth Water, we believe in rewarding our people. Here’s just a taste of what’s waiting for you when you join the team:
Holidays Made Better
Enjoy 27 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays, giving you plenty of time to relax, recharge, and explore.
A Pension That Works for You
We’ll help secure your future with a generous pension scheme, contributing up to 15% because your tomorrow matters as much as your today.
Performance Pays Off
You could earn a non-contractual bonus of up to 6% of your basic salary, linked to company performance because when we succeed together, you should benefit too.
Family Comes First
Whether you’re welcoming a new arrival through birth or adoption, we’ve got your back with enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave and pay.
Peace of Mind, Always
Our life assurance scheme gives your loved ones extra security, with a 4x salary lump sum benefit in case the unexpected happens.
Support When You Need It
We know life has its ups and downs. That’s why we offer both Private Medical Insurance and an Employee Assistance Programme provided by Bupa giving you access to expert healthcare and 24/7 confidential support.
PW Perks Treat Yourself!
Enjoy exclusive discounts at thousands of retailers, plus exciting benefits like:
* Electric Vehicle Scheme (after 1 year)
* Cycle to Work Scheme
* Health Cash Plan
and so much more!