About this role
**UK Commercial Operations Leader** **Location:** United Kingdom **Sector:** Aerospace / Advanced Manufacturing / Defence **Position Type:** Permanent, Full-time **About the Opportunity** A global aerospace and advanced manufacturing organisation is seeking an **entrepreneurial UK Commercial Operations Leader** to help **establish, shape, and grow** its UK commercial presence. With a heritage approaching a century, the organisation is known for engineering excellence in the design, manufacture, and support of **complex aerostructures**, propulsion system components, and advanced composite products across commercial, defence, and space markets. Today, it is investing for the future and looking for individuals with the **energy, ownership mindset, and appetite** to build something meaningful within a well-resourced global enterprise. This role is ideal for a **self-starter and natural "go-getter" -** someone who thrives on turning strategy into action, enjoys ambiguity, and wants the satisfaction of making a role (and a business) their own.
**The Role** Reporting to the **Head of Strategy and Business Development**, the UK Commercial Operations Leader will play a hands-on role in driving the **end-to-end execution of UK commercial programmes**, acting as the central point of coordination across the business. You will operate with a high degree of autonomy, working across international teams, partners, and government stakeholders, balancing **big picture thinking with practical delivery**. This is not a purely advisory role - it requires someone comfortable rolling up their sleeves while building long-term foundations.
**Key Responsibilities**
* Lead **end-to-end commercial programme execution** across the UK, from early planning through delivery * Act as the primary internal and external point of contact for all **UK based programme activities** * Coordinate across multiple international sites and cross-functional teams including strategy, business development, programme management, finance, contracts, engineering, and operations * Proactively identify, manage, and communicate **risks, opportunities, and delivery priorities** to senior leadership * Develop and drive **business strategies and plans** to secure national and local government incentives, working collaboratively with partners and stakeholders * Own and develop **business case modelling**, including cost, value, and return analysis * Demonstrate the ability to **think long?term and strategically**, while delivering tangible results in the near term
**Who We're Looking For** This role suits someone who:
* Enjoys **building new capability**, not just maintaining existing processes * Brings a **commercially sharp, action-oriented mindset** * Is comfortable taking ownership, making decisions, and driving momentum * Can navigate complexity while keeping delivery front of mind * Wants the opportunity to **shape a role and leave a visible legacy**
You do not need to be a 20 year veteran - but you must bring credibility, drive, and confidence!
**Essential Experience & Qualifications**
* Bachelor's degree in **Business, Management, Engineering, or a related discipline** * Minimum **8 years' relevant professional experience**, including experience in **commercial programmes, business operations, or business management** * Practical working knowledge of **UK Government rules and regulations** related to launching and operating new in-country business activities and partnerships * Experience with **commercial modelling, pricing strategies, and associated cost considerations** * Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively * Clear, confident **written and verbal communication skills** * Strong proficiency in **Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint** * Willingness to travel (up to ~30%) * **UK citizenship is required**
**Why This Role?** This is a rare opportunity for a **high potential commercial leader** to:
* Take genuine ownership of UK commercial operations * Operate at the intersection of **strategy, delivery, and growth** * Work within a globally respected aerospace organisation while maintaining a **start-up style mindset** * Build something tangible, visible, and impactful - and grow with it