The Opportunity

Be part of one of the most exciting and challenging projects within EDF, as we continue to lead the rebirth of nuclear in the UK. At Hinkley Point C (HPC) we are building two new nuclear reactors (European Pressurised Water Reactor-EPR), the first in a new generation of nuclear power stations in the UK providing low carbon electricity for around six million homes. We have a great opportunity to join EDF as a Senior Commercial Assurance Manager. In your role you will be accountable for the delivery of all Commercial Assurance and Cost Verification audit activities on the HPC Project.  

You will be responsible for developing, establishing, and managing the Commercial Assurance Strategy for the HPC Project, setting an appropriate assurance schedule, managing external consultants to deliver the schedule, and then reviewing and interrogating the reports and sharing the findings/ lessons learnt so appropriate actions can be taken.   

As a Senior Commercial Assurance Manager, you will also be responsible for ensuring appropriate guidance is in place for suppliers and commercial managers (at Pre-Contract Award, Post Contract Award, Close out stages) – such that they are clear on their responsibilities.

The Person

Our Supply Chain Directorate operates a three “firewall” approach: Firewall one being the supply chain, firewall two being our project and contract management teams, and firewall three being assurance activities. Your role as Senior Commercial Assurance Manager will include the following:

Accountabilities:

•    Create, develop, and manage the Firewall 3 Commercial Assurance Strategy for the HPC Project.  This to include Cost Verification Assurance activities, commercial assurance activities, and any other activities required to be assured to ensure effective management of the HPC Supply Chain
•    Understand contractually obligated assurance requirements, and ensure these are met at Firewall 3
•    Engage with Project managers and key stakeholders to create and maintain an on-going Commercial Assurance schedule for the Firewall 3 strategy that meets the project needs
•    Manage a team of external consultants to deliver the Firewall 3 Commercial Assurance schedule, including associated budget. Responsible for the external consultants’ time, cost, and quality.
•    Ensure firewall 3 Commercial Assurance findings are effectively documented and analysed – such that key themes and trends can be identified, lessons learnt, and effective action taken.
•    Work with the Supply Chain Reporting & Insight team to produce reports that effectively disseminate findings and information to appropriate stakeholders.
•    Provide appropriate guidance and education to Project Managers and Suppliers regarding their Firewall 1 and Firewall 2 responsibilities such that they understand them and can carry them out effectively.

Deliverables:

•    Produce a Commercial Assurance Strategy and review this at least yearly to ensure continued effectiveness
•    Produce an annual Commercial Assurance schedule, covering contractually obligated assurance activities, and utilising a risk-based approach to identify other appropriate assurance activities
•    Ensure delivery of the Assurance schedule to quality, time and cost
•    Working with the Supply Chain Reporting & Insight team, produce monthly reports on the outcomes of Commercial Assurance activities – including the identification of key themes and findings
 

The Skills

You will be characterised by the following knowledge, qualifications and experience:

•    Full membership of the RICS / ICAS or equivalent professional body 
•    Experience working with common forms of contract (NEC & FIDIC)
•    Educated to relevant degree level (commercial management and / or accounting)
•    Able to demonstrate a noteworthy track record as a Contract Manager / Quantity Surveyor/ Chartered Accountant / Auditor.
•    Demonstrable experience as a financial auditor of Supplier’s Applications for Payment
•    Effective commercial / contract management skills, with clear knowledge of best practice contract methodologies and ability to make sound decisions on matters of financial value.
•    Understanding of contract performance measurement, risk management and change management.
•    Good collaboration, influencing and communication skills 
•    Good understanding of the UK accountancy procedures / regulatory framework.
•    Problem solver who can understand wider strategic context and is prepared to take ownership and work autonomously to deliver requirements which meet these aims.
 

Competitive Salary & Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a competitive benefits package, including a company pension scheme, a wide range of flexible benefits to suit your lifestyle, and the opportunity to earn a bonus.  

Please let us know if you require flexible working arrangements by highlighting this on your application.  We’re happy to talk about flexibility in line with the requirements of this opportunity.