7F Strategic Commercial Solutions Manager

Job Title: 7F Strategic Commercial Solutions Manager
Grade: Grade H
Role Code: SNP061
Status: Police Staff

Main purpose of the role:

Direct and lead complex commercial negotiations on multi £m contracts and deliver savings and wider benefits to the forces. Providing innovative commercial solutions in areas that are traditionally problematic for policing to obtain goods/services. Resolve complex commercial disputes and problems through the application of commercial expertise, knowledge and experience, using relevant legislation and ensuring force risks are mitigated and managed effectively. Network across 7 Force Commercial services and stakeholders to ensure an integrated approach to strategy and market engagement, providing commercial leadership.

Main Responsibilities:

• Proactively research innovative solutions available in the market through engaging existing and potential new suppliers, academics sources and market intelligence with a view to stimulating a viable competitive market in problem sectors for policing.
• Resolve complex commercial disputes/problems through the application of commercial expertise and the effective engagement of key stakeholders, ensuring force risks are mitigated and managed effectively.
• Provide commercial leadership to support senior internal stakeholders and influence their decisions so that they take account of commercial advice.
• In the absence of commercial solutions work with stakeholders and the market to stimulate appetite and explore new products, develop a new market entrant or seek other commercial means/structures to solve service/supply shortfalls.
• Lead by example, promoting innovation and progressive commercial and problem-solving thinking across the 7 Forces.
• Deliver further benefits to the forces, through ongoing performance reviews, service improvement discussions, supply chain improvements, social value and innovations.
• Promote sustainable services and encourage deeper thinking around "the circular society", the reuse of waste material, energy efficiency and water conservation.
• Engage with other parties from the public and private sectors including the Home Office, Crown Commercial Service, Local Authorities, BlueLight Commercial and the major police suppliers to solve strategic issues and create commercial opportunities that will benefit the 7 Forces and raise the profile of the Commercial Function across the 7 Forces.

Created April 2023.

Vetting Level:

No vetting information is available for this role.

Necessary Experience:

Skills and abilities:

Ability to manage a complex strategic activity across multiple markets with a variety of stakeholder and experts to deliver solutions across the seven force boundaries. (essential)

Excellent verbal and written communication skills. (essential)

Strong interpersonal skills with the gravitas and ability to liaise successfully with staff/officers of all levels and external individuals, and to influence stakeholders within the 7 Forces and externally. (essential)

Very strong commercial acumen with the proven ability to identify commercial opportunities and negotiate at the highest levels. (essential)

Strong negotiating, influencing, interpersonal, political and communication skills as are essential to the role. (essential)

Provide innovative thinking and impetus to drive through change and develop and enhance an integrated strategic commercial management function across the seven forces. (essential)

Good organisational and programme management skills to ensure delivery of results through to implementation. (essential)

Ability to travel as required throughout the UK.

Delivery of significant corporate change in a planned and resilient manner.

Ability to lead, motivate and empower staff in a challenging strategic role.

Qualifications / Education / Training:

The post holder will be ideally educated to degree level and will have experience in a commercial environment be able to clearly evidence equivalent levels of experience, technical knowledge, and expertise by having worked as a leading commercial professional for a complex, private or public sector organisation. (essential)

Education in a broader range of business and commercial subjects, such as an MBA. (desirable)

Work Experience and Knowledge:

At least 5 years experience in commercial management and problem solving across high value contracts covering a range of categories. (essential)

Knowledge and understanding of contract law and the application of EU Directives embodied in the Public Procurement Regulations and legislation is essential.

Demonstrable experience of project / programme management is desirable.

Proven success in working in a political environment with senior stakeholders (Chief Officer and Chief Executive level) showing sound judgment and impact. (essential)

Significant experience of translating business needs into commercial strategies that drive enhanced business outcomes for the organisations as a whole. (essential)

The post holder will be able to demonstrate significant experience in the commercial management of contracts of significant value and / or worked as a leading Procurement professional area for a complex organisation. (essential)

Examples of taking personal responsibility and accountability for delivery of complex commercial projects.

Knowledge and understanding of contract law and the application of Procurement Regulations and legislation, for contract variations and extensions, as well as experience of developing KPIs. (essential)

Behaviours:

Analyse Critically (Level 3)

I balance risks, costs and benefits associated with decisions, thinking about the wider impact and how actions are seen in that context. I think through 'what if' scenarios. I use discretion wisely in making decisions, knowing when the 'tried and tested' is not always the most appropriate and being willing to challenge the status quo when beneficial. I seek to identify the key reasons or incidents behind issues, even in ambiguous or unclear situations. I use my knowledge of the wider external environment and long-term situations to inform effective decision making. I acknowledge that some decisions may represent a significant change. I think about the best way to introduce such decisions and win support.

Collaborative (Level 3)

I am politically aware and I understand formal and informal politics at the national level and what this means for our partners. This allows me to create long-term links and work effectively within decision-making structures. I remove practical barriers to collaboration to enable others to take practical steps in building relationships outside the organisation and in other sectors (public, not for profit, and private). I take the lead in partnerships when appropriate and set the way in which partner organisations from all sectors interact with the police. This allows the police to play a major role in the delivery of services to communities. I create an environment where partnership working flourishes and creates tangible benefits for all.

Deliver, Support and Inspire (Level 3)

I challenge myself and others to bear in mind the police service's vision to provide the best possible service in every decision made. I communicate how the overall vision links to specific plans and objectives so that people are motivated and clearly understand our goals. I ensure that everyone understands their role in helping the police service to achieve this vision. I anticipate and identify organisational barriers that stop the police service from meeting its goals, by putting in place contingencies or removing these. I monitor changes in the external environment, taking actions to influence where possible to ensure positive outcomes. I demonstrate long-term strategic thinking, going beyond personal goals and considering how the police service operates in the broader societal and economic environment. I ensure that my decisions balance the needs of my own force/unit with those of the wider police service and external partners. I motivate and inspire others to deliver challenging goals.

Emotionally Aware (Level 3)

I seek to understand the longer-term reasons for organisational behaviour. This enables me to adapt and change organisational cultures when appropriate. I actively ensure a supportive organisational culture that recognises and values diversity and well-being and challenges intolerance. I understand internal and external politics and I am able to wield influence effectively, tailoring my actions to achieve the impact needed. I am able to see things from a variety of perspectives and I use this knowledge to challenge my own thinking, values and assumptions. I ensure that all perspectives inform decision making and communicate the reasons behind decisions in a way that is clear and compelling.

Innovative and Open-minded (Level 3)

I implement, test and communicate new and far-reaching ways of working that can radically change our organisational cultures, attitudes and performance. I provide space and encouragement to help others stand back from day-to-day activities, in order to review their direction, approach and how they fundamentally see their role in policing. This helps them to adopt fresh perspectives and identify improvements. I work to create an innovative learning culture, recognising and promoting innovative activities. I lead, test and implement new, complex and creative initiatives that involve multiple stakeholders, create significant impact and drive innovation outside of my immediate sphere. I carry accountability for ensuring that the police service remains up to date and at the forefront of global policing.

Take Ownership (Level 3)

I act as a role model and enable the organisation to use instances when things go wrong as an opportunity to learn rather than blame. I foster a culture of personal responsibility, encouraging and supporting others to make their own decisions and take ownership of their activities. I define and enforce the standards and processes that will help this to happen. I put in place measures that will allow others to take responsibility effectively when I delegate decision making, and at the same time I help them to improve their performance. I create the circumstances (culture and process) that will enable people to undertake development opportunities and improve their performance. I take an organisation-wide view, acknowledging where improvements can be made and taking responsibility for making these happen.

Values:

Impartiality (accredited)

I take into account individual needs and requirements in all of my actions. I understand that treating everyone fairly does not mean everyone is treated the same. I always give people an equal opportunity to express their views. I communicate with everyone, making sure the most relevant message is provided to all. I value everyone's views and opinions by actively listening to understand their perspective. I make fair and objective decisions using the best available evidence. I enable everyone to have equal access to services and information, where appropriate.

Integrity (accredited)

I always act in line with the values of the police service and the Code of Ethics for the benefit of the public. I demonstrate courage in doing the right thing, even in challenging situations. I enhance the reputation of my organisation and the wider police service through my actions and behaviours. I challenge colleagues whose behaviour, attitude and language falls below the public's and the service's expectations. I am open and responsive to challenge about my actions and words. I declare any conflicts of interest at the earliest opportunity. I am respectful of the authority and influence my position gives me. I use resources effectively and efficiently and not for personal benefit.

Public service (accredited)

I act in the interest of the public, first and foremost. I am motivated by serving the public, ensuring that I provide the best service possible at all times. I seek to understand the needs of others to act in their best interests. I adapt to address the needs and concerns of different communities. I tailor my communication to be appropriate and respectful to my audience. I take into consideration how others want to be treated when interacting with them. I treat people respectfully regardless of the circumstances. I share credit with everyone involved in delivering services.

Transparency (accredited)

I ensure that my decision-making rationale is clear and considered so that it is easily understood by others. I am clear and comprehensive when communicating with others. I am open and honest about my areas for development and I strive to improve. I give an accurate representation of my actions and records. I recognise the value of feedback and act on it. I give constructive and accurate feedback. I represent the opinions of others accurately and consistently. I am consistent and truthful in my communications. I maintain confidentiality appropriately.

Technical Skills:

Budget Management (Level 4)

Accountable for and capable of managing a set budget at a basic level. Fully conversant with financial regulations, processes and procedures and the responsibilities placed upon a budget holder. Capable of and responsible for authorising expenditure from a local budget and aware of the implications of certain courses of action. Can make budgetary decisions having given due consideration to best value.

Business Management (Level 4)

Gathers relevant information and statistics to support the business planning process at Division / Department level. Identifies key objectives in order to improve local performance and ensures these are aligned with the Force Strategic Aims. Effectively communicates agreed objectives and targets to the local workforce. Plans for and ensures the best use of resources and value for money.

Customer Services (Level 4)

Able to identify and interpret more complex problems affecting customers. Suggests improvements in customer services and generates solutions on behalf of customers, taking the necessary action to deliver these solutions. Regularly provides enhanced and high level customer service. Demonstrates the ability to select information for communication to customers and improve the flow of information between the organisation and customers. Actively seeks opportunities for improving working relationships.

Health & Safety (Level 4)

Has received Supervisor training and takes responsibility for the safety of directly subordinate staff and visitors. Understands the procedures in place for the safe storage of hazardous substances, fire precautions and evacuation. Resolves hazards or problems identified within roles or work environments. Undertakes skills passport assessments for new and existing staff. Re-assesses passport as and when new equipment /technology is introduced.Completes annual reviews of skills passports, training needs analysis.

Information Gathering & Analysis (Level 5)

Information gathered is sufficient, valid and reliable and is consistent with the organisation's values, policies, guidelines and procedures. Able to deal with situations when information is insufficient, contradictory or ambiguous. Able to organise and interpret information so that conclusions can be drawn.

Internal Consultancy (Level 5)

Provides expert consultancy support, advice and guidance to senior managers in Departments and Areas. Understands and agrees client requirements. Agrees the level of service required after exploring all relevant options and consequences to ensure best value. Utilises appropriate techniques to gather and analyse specific, high quality data. Possesses the ability to influence others and gain commitment to action. Able to provide a seamless consultancy service.

Interviewing - General (Level 4)

Has received some training in reliable interviewing techniques and is able to apply these techniques fairly, consistently and to good effect. Identifies the key issues for examination and tests these using open and probing questions. Identifies weaknesses and inconsistencies in the account and seeks clarification. Keeps good written records of the interview for future

Knowledge of Police Environment & Policy (Level 5)

Has a thorough understanding of the police service, nationally and locally, and is proactive in developing proposals which affect the way Kent Police and/or Essex Police operates. Possesses a detailed understanding of the inter-relationships between activities, roles, functions, and how organisation structures and police systems work. Understands and impacts on working procedures, practices and policies within areas of responsibility and ensures that these are followed at all times. Contributes to Force goals and is accountable for delivering local business plan objectives.

Management of Police Information (MOPI) Level 5)

Has sufficient understanding of the NPCC records management policies be able to offer appropriate guidance and support to staff. Is able to identify the appropriate MOPI group for any record with a policing purpose and ensure that all policing records within the team are retained, reviewed or destroyed in line with the MOPI codes of practice. Quality assures staff to ensure a full understanding and compliance with the APP for Information Management (incorporating MOPI guidance), highlighting failings and taking appropriate action as required. Ensures training and / or refresher training is provided and completed. Ensures that systems are correctly linked together to ensure effective management and recording of information across systems. Appropriately reviews digital information held on system(s) and physical records in storage to ensure that they are retained only where there is a policing purpose. Complies with relevant policies and procedures in respect of prioritisation, sanitisation, dissemination,
sharing, relevancy, accuracy, adequacy and timeliness.

Office Technology (Level 4)

Demonstrates advanced skills in the use of one or more office software products Able to use these packages to enhance the quality or presentation of work required within the role. Manages data files and file structures. Provides on the job training and guidance to other staff in the use of specific or specialist software, if required. Familiar with established IT rules and protocols and shows a good understanding of data protection requirements.

Procurement - Contracting (Level 6)

Strategically identifies and ensures the provision of the Force's requirements for goods and services, seeking and exploiting new opportunities to develop the direction of the Procurement function as an integral part of all Force business operations. Represents the Force at national level to negotiate and obtain Best Value in partnership with other Forces.

Procurement - Purchasing (Level 6)

Expert in the evaluation of organisational and commercial issues impacting upon business procurement requirements. Determines the competitiveness of suppliers and identifies and exploits beneficial developments in the pursuit of Best Value on behalf of the Force. Promotes the theory of cost v. Price in demonstrating best value for the Force.

Procurement - Supplies (Level 5)

Develops, monitors and evaluates policies and plans for operations affecting the storage and retrieval of goods. Coordinates and supervises the storage and provision of goods across the county.

Risk Management - (Level 5)

Able to anticipate, accurately define and establish the relative level of risk likely to affect their specialist function, in terms of likelihood and impact, together with how the challenges facing the wider organisation might affect their role within the force. Assesses the risks of national initiatives providing feedback at the relevant level. Has an understanding of pathways to alert all appropriate senior managers to flawed or ineffective control strategies and provide continuity/recovery options. Has an appreciation that seizing opportunities also generates risks.