Commercial Category Lead - Office National Statistics - G6

Location

The ONS operates a flexible hybrid working model across the UK, with colleagues linked to one of our contractual locations working between office and remote throughout the week. The locations for this role are Newport and Titchfield (Fareham). All colleagues are required to work from their contractually allocated site for at least 40% of their working time. Frequent travel to the Titchfield office will be required as part of this role (if not already contracted there).

The requirements of the programme mean that the need for in‑person attendance may vary for some roles overtime, particularly during peak design and operational periods. This may also include travel between sites. The induction process for the role will be conducted in person. ONS is committed to flexible ways of working that support a healthy work‑life balance and will explore options for part‑time, job share or flexible arrangements in line with our hybrid working policies.

Are you ready to be part of something that shapes the future of our nation? Do you thrive on variety, enjoy working with lots of teams, and want to make a real difference? If so, this could be the opportunity you've been looking for.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is the UK's largest producer of official statistics and home to over 5,000 colleagues. We create the data that drives decisions, from measuring economic growth and tracking population changes to informing policy on everything from housing to healthcare. Our statistics directly influence how billions of pounds are allocated, how services are planned, and how communities are supported across the country.

Census 2031 represents our most ambitious data collection project yet – a once‑in‑a‑decade opportunity to capture a complete picture of everyone living in England and Wales. Building on the digital success of 2021, we’re pioneering new ways to reach every household and community, ensuring no one is left uncounted. This vital work will provide the foundation for policy decisions, resource allocation, and community planning for the next decade, and will shape how we understand and support our nation’s future.

The Census Commercial Services Division leads all procurement, contract management, and supplier performance activities for Census 2031. Its purpose is to embed robust commercial strategy early in the programme lifecycle, ensuring effective market engagement, cost efficiency, and strong risk management. This approach builds on lessons from the 2021 Census, where early commercial involvement was essential to successful delivery.

We currently have 3 positions available. As a Commercial Category Lead for Census, you will have responsibility for one of the following areas:

• Design and Integration
• Communications
• Field Collection
• Data & Operational Management
• Technology

You will become a specialist in the category area, applying best practice, developing methods and tools, generating ideas, and advising or leading others across the organisation. These roles offer a unique opportunity to lead a highly challenging and time‑critical commercial portfolio.

• Develop and implement market‑facing Category Strategies that maximise innovation, value, and organisational benefits.
• Lead Delivery Model Assessments and secure agreement on recommended approaches.
• Plan, implement, and manage major supplier contracts for Census delivery.

• Manage a portfolio of contracts, ensuring compliance with commercial policy, sourcing processes, and procurement regulations.
• Provide commercial protection for the organisation by ensuring adherence to legal, financial, regulatory, and government requirements with embedded risk analysis and management.

• Lead contract negotiations, including pricing and terms, using a strong understanding of various contract forms (Model Services, Mid‑Tier, Short Form, Bespoke).
• Develop structured negotiation strategies aligned with legislation and organisational objectives, understanding the appropriate levers available to develop a structured…