Derbyshire County Council is entering a critical phase in the expiry of its schools Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contracts. We are seeking an experienced Commercial Contract Manager to play a key role in ensuring a smooth, well‑governed and value‑for‑money transition as these complex arrangements come to an end.
This is a high‑impact role, offering the opportunity to influence major commercial decisions, protect the Council’s financial and operational interests, and support the continuity of high‑quality learning environments for Derbyshire’s children.
About the role
You will provide specialist commercial, contractual and technical expertise to support the effective management and expiry of PFI contracts, working closely with colleagues across property, legal, finance and education services.
The role focuses on:
- Managing commercial negotiations as PFI contracts approach expiry
- Supporting the development and delivery of exit and handback strategies
- Ensuring school assets are returned in a safe, compliant and fit‑for‑purpose condition
- Helping to put in place future FM, maintenance and asset management arrangements beyond PFI
- Minimising cost, risk and disruption for the Council and its school partners
You will deputise for the Commercial Contract Expiry Manager where required and will report progress to senior governance boards.
Key responsibilities include:
- Act on behalf of the Council in commercial negotiations with Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), FM providers, schools and other stakeholders
- Support and deliver handback and contract expiry activities, including compliance checking and audits
- Review and challenge performance against contractual standards, including payment mechanisms and deductions
- Analyse condition, lifecycle, compliance and PPM data to identify risks, mitigation actions and financial impacts
- Contribute to the negotiation and mobilisation of future contracts post‑PFI
- Liaise with senior leaders, schools, governors, contractors and national bodies such as the DfE and EFA
- Provide expert advice on contract, asset management and estates‑related commercial matters
About you
You will bring strong commercial and contractual expertise, ideally gained within a complex estates, facilities or infrastructure environment.
Essential requirements include:
- Significant experience in contract management or a related commercial field
- Strong working knowledge of PFI or similarly complex long‑term contracts, including KPIs and performance mechanisms
- Sound understanding of contract law and property‑related legislation
- Experience of commercial negotiation, risk management and cost control
- Ability to analyse technical, compliance and condition data and translate it into clear commercial advice
- Excellent communication, report‑writing and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to work autonomously, manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
- Degree‑level qualification or equivalent experience
Desirable experience includes:
- Experience working within a public sector environment
- Experience of schools, education estates or facilities management contracts
- Knowledge of hard and soft FM contracts
What we offer
- A meaningful role at the heart of a major strategic programme
- The opportunity to influence long‑term outcomes for schools and communities
- Flexible working arrangements
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme
- A supportive and professional working environment committed to equality, wellbeing and climate responsibility
If you are a commercially astute contract professional looking to apply your expertise to a complex and rewarding challenge, we would welcome your application.
Closing Date: Sunday 14th June 2026
Provisional Interview Date Tuesday 23rd June 2026
PFI2026
