Who We Are

At Eastern Region Commercial Directorate, we are looking for talented individuals to join our growing team and work alongside a range of business units and across a varied and large portfolio There are opportunities to support and lead Commercial activities on major projects and programmes, which deliver some of the most exciting and innovative projects in UK infrastructure, to smaller-scale, higher volume reactive works which keep the railway moving and support business-critical activities. 

The Eastern Region Commercial Team prides itself on continuous improvement and a learning culture, with opportunities for career development for everyone, where individuals with the right skills, enthusiasm and behaviours can make a real impact to the commercial, supply chain and governance approaches we take in Eastern Region. Furthermore, we are part of the solution to addressing wider industry targets in our business, such as sustainable supply chains or carbon net zero targets, therefore no one day need be the same. 

You can learn more about our region here: Eastern region - Network Rail

We're proud to be building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We know that inclusive teams make better decisions, drive innovation, and help us create a safer, more accessible railway for everyone.  Even if you don't meet every single requirement, we encourage you to apply. If you're passionate about making a difference and believe you have the skills or potential to thrive in this role, we'd love to hear from you. We're committed to creating an open, supportive environment where everyone feels they belong. Your unique perspective and experience could be exactly what we need to keep Britain moving safely and sustainably. Discover more about our commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at Network Rail Equity, diversity and inclusion - Network Rail.

We're also a Disability Confident Leader employer and we'll try our best to adapt the process and offer a reasonable alternative to help support people with disabilities access, apply and interview for roles.

About the role

Your experience and skills

What you'll be doing:

While there may be specific role-related duties not listed here , in general you'll lead the commercial management of high-profile rail infrastructure projects from inception through to final account settlement. 

Working closely with project teams, contractors and senior stakeholders, you'll develop commercial strategies, oversee contract and framework management, manage risk and change control, and ensure robust financial governance across your portfolio.

You'll lead complex negotiations, resolve commercial challenges, support procurement activities and drive continuous improvement, while providing leadership, coaching and development to commercial professionals within your team

What you'll have:

• Knowledge of railway and construction industry conditions of contract
• Educated to degree level or equivalent and professional qualification
• Experienced negotiator
• Experience of resolution of construction contract disputes
• 5 years' relevant railway and/or construction experience
• Knowledge of railway commercial contract management

As part of your application, you'll be asked to explain how your skills, experience, knowledge and qualifications meet the essential criteria. Please also upload your latest CV if prompted.

We would also like but it isn't crucial to have/to be:

• Experience of managing and developing a team of staff
• Good communication skills both written and oral
• Experience of contractors accounts

Ideal For

The ideal Senior Commercial Manager will be an accomplished commercial leader with experience of managing complex contract commercial portfolios. They will demonstrate exceptional commercial acumen, strategic thinking and sound judgement, with a proven ability to develop and implement commercial strategies that deliver value for money while effectively managing risk and protecting organisational interests. The successful candidate will be a confident and influential leader, capable of building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders, leading high-performing teams and driving a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement. They will possess expert knowledge of procurement, contract management, commercial governance and dispute resolution, combined with strong negotiation skills and the ability to resolve complex commercial challenges. Above all, they will be a credible, resilient and results-driven professional who can provide strategic direction, inspire others and deliver successful outcomes across a dynamic and challenging business environment.