Job description
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced commercial or framework assistant to join a great team and make a difference in the delivery of significant programmes of work. This role will be crucial for the governance of our Frameworks, providing an excellent chance to support and lead on critical and strategic activities and relationships.
The Assistant Framework Manager works closely with the Framework Manager in the implementation and management of procurement frameworks to ensure efficient delivery of projects and services in line with the Environment Agency’s goals.
You will ensure Framework compliance through document management, assurance activities and stakeholder management, driving consistency and improvement. You will be a key contact for EA staff, strategic delivery partners and others using this delivery vehicle. You will become a recognised authority giving sound advice on Framework interpretation. You will assist the business to ensure teams receive maximum benefit from these arrangements and support implementation of any improvements and changes throughout its lifecycle.
You will be able to apply the Framework to projects and programmes embedding best practice and developing long-term collaborative partnerships.
You will support the planning and assurance of framework activities by contributing to the management of data and assurance indicators and assisting in the preparation of quarterly framework surgeries, Framework Managers Group meetings and 1-2-1's.
Everyone that joins us is required to undertake training and participate in incident response duties when the need to respond arises Having an incident role is an essential part of working for the Environment Agency and an active way to support communities and prevent harm to the environment. Further information on incident response can be found within your candidate pack.
Desired Education & Professional Requirements
Degree or equivalent professional qualification or experience.
Working towards, or a willingness to work toward Associate status with a recognised professional body such as ICE, CIWEM, APM, CIPS, or RICS.
Formal training in contract management and procurement frameworks (e.g., NEC4 ECC & PSC training, Contract Management Capability Programme or equivalent).
Essential Experience
Experience working in framework, or contract management, ideally within infrastructure, construction, flood and coastal risk management (FCRM), or environmental programmes.
A skilled communicator with strong interpersonal and influencing skills with experience managing a range of stakeholders.
Experience using or managing complex frameworks, and managing supplier relationships within capital delivery or operational environments would be beneficial.
Strong data and document management skills.
Experience using collaborative tools and systems (e.g., SharePoint, MS Teams, Excel tracking tools)
Other Experience
Experience using NEC Form of Contract.
Demonstrated understanding of public sector procurement practices and UK government frameworks.
Benefits include generous pension provision and leave entitlement. Our flexible working supports a healthy work/life balance and offers numerous choices to accommodate the demands that personal commitments may present. Excellent training and learning opportunities are available, including personal and professional development
The team is nationally dispersed across the country. Some travel required with occasional overnight stays. The role can be fulfilled via hybrid working.
For further information please contact: [email protected]
Interview due to take place via Teams in early March 2026.
#LI-DNI
"When providing evidence for competencies within your application, please give examples of how you clearly demonstrate these either within the context of this role or as transferable skills.
CVs or other documents attached to your application will not be assessed for selection. "
Question: : Provide an example of how you quickly and effectively improved a service you were responsible for to address competing needs of internal and external customers. How did you identify the improvements to be made and how did you know the change was effective?
"PLEASE NOTE: Your answer will be used for interview selection - please draw out your skills and experience in your response. You may consider using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when formulating your answer to the question.
If a large number of applications are received, an initial sift using this lead capability may be conducted. Successful candidates will then proceed to a full sift or directly to assessment/interview."
"When providing evidence for competencies within your application, please give examples of how you clearly demonstrate these either within the context of this role or as transferable skills.
CVs or other documents attached to your application will not be assessed for selection. "
Question: Can you describe a time when you had to collect, validate, and manage complex data from multiple sources? What systems or processes did you use to ensure the data was accurate, securely stored, and compliant with relevant standards?
PLEASE NOTE: Your answer will be used for interview selection - please draw out your skills and experience in your response. You may consider using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when formulating your answer to the question.
"When providing evidence for competencies within your application, please give examples of how you clearly demonstrate these either within the context of this role or as transferable skills.
CVs or other documents attached to your application will not be assessed for selection. "
Question: Tell us about a time when you had to communicate a complex or sensitive issue to a supplier or stakeholder. How did you ensure your message was clear, accurate, and persuasive?
PLEASE NOTE: Your answer will be used for interview selection - please draw out your skills and experience in your response. You may consider using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when formulating your answer to the question.
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.
We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.
We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.
Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action. Although the Environment Agency is a non-departmental public body sponsored by Defra, we subscribe to and align with the candidate guidance on the use of artificial intelligence found on the Civil Service Careers website. Please review for more information on appropriate and inappropriate use.
