About this role
Business Support – PFI Education Contract
Position Type: Hybird
Position Overview
The Commercial Assistant will support the commercial management of a 12-school PFI contract, reporting to the Contract Manager and working alongside the Commercial Manager to support ensure effective financial administration, contract compliance, and stakeholder management across the portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Administration
Ensure invoicing processes are maintained across all 12 schools, ensuring accuracy and timely submission to the client authority.
Contract Management Support
Assist with the administration of defects to ensure full compliance with the interface agreement.
Preparation and monitoring of the payment mechanism for the Contract.
Maintain the Change Control log and support the preparation of change requests and quotations for additional works.
Supplier and Subcontractor Coordination
Maintain the approved supplier database and ensure all necessary insurance and compliance documentation is current.
Stakeholder Liaison
Act as a point of contact for school-based queries relating to commercial matters and service delivery. Attend client meetings as required and prepare supporting documentation. Build effective working relationships with headteachers, business managers, and local authority representatives.
Compliance and Reporting
Support the Commercial Manager to ensure all commercial activities comply with PFI contract terms, company policies, and relevant legislation.
Administration
Maintain accurate records using contract management systems and internal databases. Support the Commercial Manager with the Preparation of correspondence, reports, and presentations as required. Support the wider commercial team with ad-hoc projects and administrative tasks.
Essential Requirements
Education & Qualifications:
Minimum of 5 GCSEs including Maths and English (Grade C/4 or above)
Experience working in a commercial, finance, or contract administration role
Skills & Experience:
Strong numerical and financial administration skills with high attention to detail
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for data management and reporting
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities across a multi-site contract
Strong written and verbal communication skills for stakeholder engagement
Understanding of procurement processes and purchase order management
Personal Attributes:
Professional and customer-focused approach
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Proactive problem-solver with a solutions-oriented mindset
Adaptable and able to work in a dynamic, multi-stakeholder environment
Desirable Requirements
Previous experience in PFI, FM, or education sector contracts
Knowledge of hard and soft FM services
Familiarity with contract management or CAFM systems
Working Arrangements
This role requires regular travel between the 12 school sites within the contract portfolio. A valid UK driving licence and access to a vehicle is essential. The position is primarily site-based with occasional office-based work as required.