AMS PSR

On behalf of Network Rail, we are looking for a Commercial Operations Director - (Inside IR35) for a 6-month contract working on a hybrid basis and with an expectation of 3 days per week in either London, Kings Cross or York offices sites. The remaining days will be worked remotely.

Network Rail is at the heart of revitalising Britain’s railway. From Crossrail – Europe’s largest civil engineering project – to investment in world-class stations and major programmes of electrification, we are involved in some of the most ambitious and diverse ventures that this country has ever seen. We at Network Rail are dedicated to becoming one of Britain's best employers and believe this starts with placing the candidate at the heart of everything we do!

Job Purpose

The Director, Commercial Operations is responsible for leading and managing all post- contract commercial activities across GBRX’s capital (Capex) and operational (Opex) expenditure programmes. This role ensures the effective implementation of robust commercial strategies that drive value for money, efficiency, and compliance with public sector procurement regulations, including the Procurement Act.

The postholder will play a critical role in contract management, financial control, supplier performance, and risk management, ensuring that all commercial activities align with government policies, Network Rail standards, and public sector governance requirements. They will oversee contracts held with suppliers, train operators, freight operators and other rail operators.

Additionally, the Head of Commercial Delivery will provide leadership to the GBRX commercial team, fostering a high-performing and accountable commercial function.

Through strong stakeholder engagement, they will drive informed decision-making, ensuring commercial risks are managed effectively while delivering programmes on time, within budget, and in line with regulatory and sustainability commitments.

As a Commercial Operations Director - (Inside IR35), your main responsibilities will be:

•Implement Commercial Strategies: Direct robust strategies for Capex and Opex programmes, collaborating with teams to identify optimal market routes.

•Manage Post-Contract Activities: Ensure adherence to commercial frameworks and risk management practices.

•Develop & Negotiate Agreements: Lead the creation and negotiation of bespoke commercial agreements with rail operators.

•Oversee Contract Performance: Monitor supplier adherence to KPIs and contractual obligations, ensuring compliance with the Procurement Act.

•Lead Supplier Performance Management: Drive continuous improvement and value delivery, resolving disputes effectively.

•Develop Commercial Team: Ensure resources, training, and professional development for the team, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.

Essential:

•Leadership & Commercial Expertise: Proven leadership and interpersonal skills, significant experience in commercial management, contract negotiation, and large capital programmes.

•Rail & Strategic Experience: Background in rail, with experience in driving strategy and managing large capital programmes.

•Stakeholder Management & Analytical Skills: Strong commercial focus, exceptional negotiating skills, and extensive experience in stakeholder influencing, contract law, and procurement management.

Desirable:

•Background in Related Sectors: Experience within the digital signalling arena, within freight, or similar fields.

Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.

Network Rail is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. They welcome applications from everyone.

Disability Confident

As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, Network Rail guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates who have a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

Armed Forces Covenant

Network Rail guarantees to interview veterans or spouses / partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of ex-military candidates / military spouses or partners, who meet all of the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.

In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following "this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different". 

If this role sounds like something that you would be interested in, please click the link to apply or get in touch with Trevor Wilson at Trevor.Wilson@weareams.com