Meet our commercial managers

Ben

My background 

Before joining the Crown Prosecution Service, I spent seven years working in the energy industry. My last role was a metering team leader. My responsibilities included managing the metering contracts the energy supplier had in place, as well as procuring new contracts. I enjoyed what I was doing and liked the people I worked with, but I didn’t feel like there were many opportunities for progression. 

In 2020, I started looking at other jobs, and saw a commercial contract manager vacancy advertised at Crown Prosecution Service. When I looked at what the role involved, I thought, “I can do that!” I was ready for a career change, and the Crown Prosecution Service values appealed to me too. I liked the idea of working for an organisation where I could make a difference, and Crown Prosecution Service seemed like a good fit.  

My inspiration

The culture at the Crown Prosecution Service is one of continuous improvement. There’s a real focus on thinking about what we can do better, and then working together to make it happen. Within the commercial team, I’ve felt supported and valued from day one, which has improved my confidence. I really enjoy being part of this team, and I know that help is always available when I need it. 

My typical day 

I started working for the Crown Prosecution Service in 2020 as a contract manager, helping manage our high value contracts and making sure suppliers comply with their contractual obligations. In 2022 I was promoted to the role of lead supplier transition manager - responsible for managing contract exits and implementing new contracts. The role's quite project focused – liaising with internal stakeholders to understand what they need, then working with suppliers to ensure they deliver what we need, when we need it.  I have since been promoted further into my current role as lead commercial contract manager. Dealing with contract management improvements and savings for services across the Crown Prosecution Service.

My biggest learning 

In my time at Crown Prosecution Service, I’ve had so many opportunities to learn and develop. I’m currently completing an apprenticeship in procurement and supply, which has really helped build my commercial knowledge and skills. The advice I always give new starters when they join the commercial team is to be patient with yourself – you’re not going to know everything on day one, no one does! But you’ll be given the time to learn, and be supported while you’re doing so. 

Lucy

My background  

I joined the Crown Prosecution Service in 2019 as a procurement apprentice after completing my A level studies.  

This gave me the opportunity to complete a Level 3 certificate in operational delivery qualification. After completing my apprenticeship, I successfully applied for a permanent position as a procurement administrator. Since then I've gained more knowledge and experience, progressing to a commercial category manager. 

My inspiration  

One of my A-levels was in business, and I'd already decided that I wanted to go straight into the workplace rather than going to university. So when I saw the role of a procurement apprentice on the Civil Service jobs website, I thought it would be the perfect role and a great way into the Civil Service. I was also interested in the criminal justice sector as a whole, so the role was ideal for me.  

One of the best parts about working at the Crown Prosecution Service is the variety of different people I get to communicate with on a daily basis - from lawyers to suppliers. I also enjoy the range of work I do as a commercial category manager - every day is different. 

I really enjoy the push for staff development. In the time I've been here I've undertaken plenty of learning - including my Level 4 qualification through the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS). There are also many development opportunities at all levels. 

My typical day 

A typical day involves working with stakeholders to understand their needs and what we in the commercial team can do to assist them. I also deal with any issues or queries that stakeholders may have about Crown Prosecution Service contracts, providing commercial advice. I procure new and existing contracts for the organisation, and I facilitate contract management tasks ensuring compliance and continuous improvements are made to our services.

My biggest learning 

The best advice that I could give someone considering a commercial career within the Crown Prosecution Service is to definitely apply!