Principal Contracting & Procurement Manager - Energy & Natural Resource

We are seeking an experienced Principal contracting & procurement manager to play a pivotal role in the delivery of major energy transition projects. This is a strategic leadership position responsible for developing and executing contracting and procurement strategies, managing complex commercial agreements, and driving value across large-scale offshore and onshore projects. You will provide commercial leadership, procurement expertise, and contract management guidance throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring the successful delivery of critical infrastructure programmes while maximising value, managing risk, and strengthening supplier and contractor relationships. - Lead the development and execution of contracting and procurement strategies. - Act as the commercial and contractual subject matter expert, advising stakeholders on procurement approaches, contract models, and market trends. - Manage end-to-end procurement activities, including sourcing, tendering, negotiation, evaluation, and contract award. - Draft, negotiate, and administer high-value contracts, ensuring commercial risks are effectively managed. - Lead contract management activities, including variations, claims, disputes, and change control processes. - Monitor contractor and supplier performance, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and delivery requirements. - Identify and manage commercial, contractual, and supply chain risks while driving value optimisation opportunities. - Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, contractors, suppliers, and strategic partners. - Drive governance, compliance, reporting, and continuous improvement across contracting and procurement activities. - Mentor and support colleagues, promoting commercial best practice and contributing to the successful delivery of strategic business objectives. Essential Experience - Significant experience in Contracting, Procurement, Commercial, or Supply Chain Management within Energy, Infrastructure, Oil & Gas, Renewables, or Energy Transition sectors. - Proven track record of developing and delivering contracting and procurement strategies for major capital projects. - Experience managing high-value contracts throughout the full lifecycle, from tendering and award through to execution and close-out. - Strong knowledge of NEC, FIDIC, LOGIC, or other standard forms of contract. - Demonstrable commercial negotiation skills with a focus on delivering value and managing risk. - Experience managing contract variations, claims, disputes, and commercial change processes. - Strong stakeholder management, communication, and influencing skills across multidisciplinary teams. - Experience operating within complex, highly regulated project environments. Desirable - MCIPS, MRICS, or equivalent professional qualification. - Experience supporting large-scale infrastructure, offshore, CCUS, hydrogen, renewable energy, or power projects. - Understanding of UK procurement regulations and commercial governance frameworks. - Previous experience leading teams, coaching colleagues, or managing commercial resources.