Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.
Job DescriptionSenior Commercial Manager – Defence & Maritime
Bristol (Hybrid with occasional travel)
Ready to shape billion-pound defence programmes?
At Navantia UK, we’re delivering some of the most complex and ambitious maritime and defence projects in the UK. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for a Senior Commercial Manager to take a leading role in securing and delivering major shipbuilding and defence bids.
Why this role stands out
- Lead commercial strategy on £1bn+ bids
- Act as the key commercial interface with customers
- Influence bid strategy, pricing, and negotiations
- Play a critical role in the UK’s naval future
What you’ll be doing
- Driving commercial strategy across major bids
- Leading high-value negotiations with key clients
- Shaping pricing models, risk strategies, and governance
- Collaborating with business development, engineering, and supply chain teams
- Managing compliance (DEFCONs, SSPRs) and commercial risk
- Supporting contract delivery post-award
What we’re looking for
- Proven experience in defence, maritime, or complex engineering sectors
- Strong track record leading major bids and contract negotiations
- Deep understanding of UK defence commercial frameworks
- Commercial leadership and stakeholder influence at senior level
- Strong financial and pricing expertise
Why Navantia UK?
This is a high-impact leadership role at the forefront of the UK’s defence sector, working on strategically important programmes within a growing and collaborative organisation.
Security clearance (or eligibility) required.
Interested or know someone who would be a great fit? Get in touch or apply now.
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Additional Information
We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.
We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.
If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on-line please contact us at [email protected] and one of the team will be in contact to help you.
Skills Required
- Proven experience in defence, maritime, or complex engineering sectors
- Strong track record leading major bids and contract negotiations
- Deep understanding of UK defence commercial frameworks
- Commercial leadership and stakeholder influence at senior level
- Strong financial and pricing expertise
- Knowledge of compliance (DEFCONs, SSPRs) and commercial risk management
- Security clearance or eligibility
What We Do
Navantia UK is a maritime engineering and defence company that supports the UK's defence, security, and energy ambitions. As a subsidiary of the Spanish state-owned Navantia SA, it focuses on developing sovereign defence capabilities, modernising industrial facilities, and bolstering energy security. The company leverages global expertise in shipbuilding and ship repair, combining it with centuries of UK industrial heritage to strengthen Britain's maritime and industrial capabilities.
