Contracts Manager - Derby - Hybrid

RecruitMe; Derby; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in sustainable rail transport seeks a Commercial Contracts Manager to oversee leasing agreements for high-end tri-mode locomotives. This pivotal role involves managing strategic contracts, negotiating commercial terms, and collaborating across departments to support innovation and growth in the rail industry.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in contracts management, ideally in the rail or infrastructure sectors.
• Strong understanding of commercial leasing and large capital asset agreements.
• Detail-oriented and capable of managing multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead negotiation of locomotive leasing contracts and manage lifecycle.
• Act as liaison between legal, finance, engineering, and client teams.
• Ensure agreements align with company objectives and regulatory standards.

Skills

Negotiation skills

Contract management

Commercial acumen

Project management

Education

Legal or commercial qualifications (e.g., CIPS, IACCM)

Job description

Derby / Hybrid - Contracts Manager – High-End Tri-Mode Locomotives - £65k - £68k

Are you a Commercial, Account or Contracts Manager, or a procurement professional looking for a new opportunity?

Do you have a sharp commercial mind and a passion for the rail industry?

This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable rail transport by leading contract negotiations for cutting-edge tri-mode locomotives.

About the Role

We’re seeking a Commercial Contracts Manager to take ownership of end-to-end commercial leasing agreements for a new generation of high-end tri-mode locomotives.

The Commercial Manager will work closely with internal stakeholders, legal teams, and external partners to structure, negotiate, and manage high-value contracts with rail operators across the UK and beyond.

This isn’t just a paperwork role — you’ll be the strategic lead in forging long-term leasing arrangements that drive innovation, sustainability, and growth in the rail freight and passenger markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the structuring and negotiation of locomotive leasing contracts, including commercial terms, risk management, and compliance.

• Act as the primary liaison between legal, finance, engineering, and client teams.

• Ensure all agreements align with company objectives and regulatory standards.

• Manage contract lifecycle from initiation to renewal or termination.

• Develop strong relationships with rail operators, rolling stock manufacturers, and finance partners.

• Stay ahead of industry trends and competitor activity to inform pricing and strategy.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in contracts management, commercial leasing, or asset financing — ideally in the rail, transport, or infrastructure sectors.

• Strong understanding of rolling stock or aerospace leasing or large capital asset agreements.

• Excellent negotiation skills with a focus on value creation and risk mitigation.

• Detail-oriented, commercially astute, and comfortable working across technical and legal disciplines.

• Ability to manage multiple complex projects and stakeholders simultaneously.

Desirable

• Knowledge of tri-mode or alternative propulsion locomotives.

• Legal or commercial qualifications (e.g., CIPS, IACCM, law degree, etc.)