Lead Portfolio Manager

Carrington West; Swindon; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure firm in the UK is seeking an experienced Lead Portfolio Manager to oversee major rail projects. The successful candidate will manage NEC contracts, ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, and lead multidisciplinary teams. The role offers a salary range of £400-£440, with a mix of 3 days on-site and 2 days working from home.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience managing large‑scale rail or infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of NEC contract management.
• Proven ability to lead multi‑disciplinary teams and manage complex project interfaces.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and management of output specifications, procurement, and assurance reviews for assigned projects.
• Manage NEC contracts and contractor performance to ensure compliance and effective delivery.
• Coordinate integration of design and construction activities across internal and external teams.

Skills

NEC contract management

Stakeholder management

Health & Safety Management

Communication skills

Leadership of multi-disciplinary teams

Job description

Are you an experienced Portfolio or Project Manager with a strong background in rail electrification or infrastructure delivery?

Do you have proven experience managing complex NEC contracts and multi-phase engineering projects?

Location: Swindon
Salary: £400-£440 (Inside IR35)
Working pattern: 3 days on site or in office, 2 days WFH

I’m looking for a Lead Portfolio Manager to oversee major works between Paddington and Airport Junction, including the Headspan Conversion Programme and Balance Weight Anchor Replacement Project. The role involves leading project delivery in accordance with the Project Acceleration in a Controlled Environment (PACE) Framework, ensuring all works are completed safely, on time, to budget, and to the highest quality standards.

You’ll be responsible for managing NEC contracts, integrating design and delivery partners, and ensuring full compliance with Network Rail’s Health & Safety Management System.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and management of output specifications, procurement, and assurance reviews for assigned projects.
• Manage NEC contracts and contractor performance to ensure compliance and effective delivery.
• Coordinate integration of design and construction activities across internal and external teams.
• Oversee preparation and maintenance of the AMP/H&S file.
• Ensure adherence to Network Rail’s Health & Safety Management System, including CSM, interoperability regulations, and product acceptance.
• Provide leadership, assurance, and governance through all project stages in line with the PACE Framework.

Essential Requirements

• Extensive experience managing large‑scale rail or infrastructure projects.
• Strong knowledge of NEC contract management.
• Proven ability to lead multi‑disciplinary teams and manage complex project interfaces.
• Understanding of health, safety, and environmental management systems.
• Experience working under structured governance frameworks such as PACE.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.

If you would like to hear more about this role please email your CV to [e-mail] or call 02393876037.