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Bid Procurement Manager

Northrop Grumman · Cheltenham, UK
Clearance Level
SC
Salary Range
Competitive
Employment Type
FULL TIME
Work Style
hybrid

// Role Summary

Join Northrop Grumman UK as a Bid Procurement Manager, playing a critical role in securing the future of Defence and C&I programmes by shaping competitive supply chain strategies and fostering strong supplier relationships.

// Key Responsibilities

  • Shape supply chain strategies for Defence and C&I programmes.
  • Identify, engage, and down-select suppliers for bids.
  • Build and maintain strong supplier relationships.
  • Negotiate for commercial value and promote responsible sourcing.
  • Collaborate with Business Development, Programme, Finance, and Bid teams.
  • Must be a UK national and able to gain/maintain SC security clearance.

// Role Specification

Opportunity Overview

This is more than just a job; it’s a mission. Northrop Grumman UK is seeking a Bid Procurement Manager to play a critical role in securing the future of our Defence and C&I programmes. Working at the heart of our bid and capture activity, you’ll partner with Business Development, Programme, Finance, and Bid teams to shape compelling, competitive, and deliverable supply chain strategies. You’ll be instrumental in identifying and engaging suppliers, building strong relationships, and ensuring our supply base is aligned to both current delivery and future growth. This is a highly collaborative, fast-paced role where your commercial insight and stakeholder engagement will directly contribute to winning new business.

If you enjoy influencing strategy, negotiating for value, and working on mission-led programmes, this is a great opportunity to make a real impact.

Role Responsibilities

  • Build and maintain a strong network of suppliers aligned to current and future business needs.
  • Partner with Business Development to shape the supply chain strategy across bids and opportunities.
  • Identify, engage, and down-select suppliers, ensuring the right capability, value, and innovation is brought into each bid.
  • Act as the central point of contact for supplier engagement, ensuring consistent and effective communication.
  • Support the development and implementation of fit-for-purpose contracts in line with company policy.
  • Contribute to bid planning, reporting, and governance, ensuring timelines and objectives are met.
  • Promote social value and responsible sourcing within the supply chain.

Candidate Requirements

  • Proven experience supporting bids or proposal activity, ideally within defence, engineering, or regulated environments.
  • Strong track record of building and managing supplier relationships.
  • Demonstrable negotiation experience with a focus on delivering commercial value.
  • Good understanding of contract law and procurement principles.
  • Highly organised, able to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement skills with the ability to influence across teams.

Desirable Experience

  • CIPS Level 5 (or working towards).
  • WorldCC or equivalent commercial accreditation.
  • Knowledge of international trade compliance (ITAR, EAR, or similar).

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every requirement. If you bring relevant experience and a willingness to learn, we’d love to hear from you.

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work, you must be a UK national for this clearance type. You must be able to gain and maintain UK Government SC security clearance.

Benefits

  • Flexible working options, including a compressed fortnight.
  • Private healthcare.
  • Cash health plan.
  • Holiday buy and sell scheme.
  • Career development and progression opportunities.
  • Performance-based bonus.

Why Join Us?

A Mission to Believe In: Every day, we contribute to building a more secure and connected world. Your work will directly support critical national capability and future defence innovation.

A Place to Belong and Thrive: We value diverse perspectives and create an environment where everyone can contribute, grow, and succeed.

Your Career, Your Way: From professional development to cross-functional opportunities, you’ll have the support and flexibility to shape your career in a way that works for you.

Relocation Assistance: No relocation assistance available.

Travel: 10% of the Time.

UK Citizenship: Required for this position.