Commercial Manager

Morson Talent; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is on the lookout for a skilled Commercial Manager with a strong background in the rail sector. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to manage the commercial and contractual aspects of high-profile infrastructure projects. You will be responsible for leading the commercial management from pre-contract through to final account, providing strategic advice, and ensuring compliance with NEC contracts. Join a dynamic team that values professional development and offers flexible working arrangements, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a significant impact in the rail industry.

Benefits

Pension Scheme

Professional Development Support

Flexible / Hybrid Working Arrangements

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Commercial Manager in rail infrastructure.
• Strong knowledge of NEC Contracts and commercial management.

Responsibilities

• Lead commercial management of rail projects from pre-contract to final account.
• Provide strategic commercial advice and manage project budgets.

Skills

Commercial Management

Contract Administration

Negotiation Skills

Stakeholder Management

Financial Acumen

Analytical Skills

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying

Professional Membership (RICS, ICES)

Tools

Cost Management Software

Job description

Location: Manchester
Salary: Competitive/Negotiable dependent on experience
Reporting to: Commercial Director / Senior Commercial Manager
Contract Type: Permanent / Full-Time

Role Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Commercial Manager with a strong background in the rail sector and in-depth knowledge of NEC (New Engineering Contract) forms of contract. The successful candidate will play a key role in managing the commercial and contractual aspects of our rail projects, ensuring effective cost management, contract compliance, and commercial governance. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic and growing team working on high-profile infrastructure projects.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead the commercial management of rail infrastructure projects from pre-contract through to final account.
2. Provide strategic commercial advice to project teams and senior management.
3. Administer and manage NEC contracts (Options A, C, E etc.), ensuring compliance with contract provisions.
4. Prepare and manage project budgets, forecasts, and cost plans.
5. Manage risk and opportunity within projects, ensuring commercial risks are identified and mitigated.
6. Lead on contract change management, including Compensation Events, Early Warnings, and variations.
7. Liaise closely with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to manage commercial relationships.
8. Lead the procurement of subcontract packages and manage subcontractor performance.
9. Ensure robust reporting of commercial performance, including CVR (Cost Value Reconciliation) reporting.
10. Support dispute resolution processes, including preparation of claims and negotiation of settlements.
11. Provide mentorship and guidance to junior commercial staff within the team.

Essential Requirements:

1. Proven experience as a Commercial Manager (or Senior Quantity Surveyor ready to step up) within the rail infrastructure sector.
2. Strong working knowledge of NEC Contracts (Options A, C, E etc.) with demonstrable experience of contract administration and commercial management under NEC conditions.
3. Experience working on infrastructure projects within a regulated environment.
4. Excellent commercial and financial acumen.
5. Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
6. Ability to lead commercial strategy and influence project outcomes.
7. Strong analytical and reporting skills.

Qualifications:

1. Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
2. Professional membership (or working towards) with RICS, ICES, or equivalent professional body desirable.
3. NEC Contract Accreditation or formal NEC training advantageous.

Desirable:

1. Experience working for a Tier 1 Contractor or Client-side within rail infrastructure projects.
2. Knowledge of Network Rail standards and governance processes.
3. Experience managing multi-disciplinary project teams.
4. Familiarity with cost management software and reporting tools.

Benefits:

1. Competitive salary and package.
2. Pension scheme.
3. Professional development support.
4. Flexible / hybrid working arrangements.