Lead Portfolio Manager - Rail

Randstad Cpe London; England; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Lead Portfolio Manager for a high-impact 6-month contract in Swindon. The successful candidate will manage critical railway modernisation projects focusing on overhead line equipment and signalling systems. Ideal applicants will have proven experience in portfolio management within the UK rail sector and a strong background in NEC contract management. The role offers a rate of £440/day and requires adherence to health and safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Portfolio Manager in the UK rail sector.
• Strong hands-on experience with NEC contract management.
• Background in OLE and/or Signalling/ETCS projects is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• End-to-end management of multiple NEC Contracts across both workstreams.
• Ensure seamless integration of works between all parties.
• Ownership of AMP & Health & Safety files.

Skills

Portfolio Management

NEC Contract Management

Stakeholder Management

Health & Safety Compliance

Job description

Lead Portfolio Manager (Major OLE & ETCS Projects)

Location: Swindon | Rate: £440/day (Umbrella) | Contract: 6 Months (Inside IR35) | Clearance: BPSS & PTS Required

Drive a Critical Railway Modernisation Programme

Are you a seasoned Portfolio Manager with expertise in Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) and signalling systems? We are seeking a dynamic Lead Portfolio Manager to oversee a portfolio of essential works on one of the UK's busiest and most high-profile rail corridors.

This is a high-impact, 6-month contract where you will be instrumental in delivering two key workstreams: a major Headspan Conversion programme and the cutting-edge ETCS (European Train Control System) rollout, managing contracts with key partners.

Your Role

You will be the single point of accountability, leading the development, procurement, and assurance for these critical projects. Your focus will be on delivering to cost, time, and quality, while rigorously upholding Safety, Legislation, Company Standards, and the PACE framework.

What We're Looking For (The Essentials)

• Proven experience as a Portfolio Manager, Senior Project Manager, or Contract Manager within the UK rail sector.
• Strong, hands‑on experience with NEC contract management, ideally across multiple contracts simultaneously.
• Background in OLE (Overhead Line Equipment) and/or Signalling/ETCS projects is highly desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of NR/L2/INI/02009 (The Hazard Management Process) and other key standards.
• Excellent stakeholder and contractor management and engagement skills.
• Must hold or be eligible to acquire PTS (Personal Track Safety).

This portfolio consists of two distinct but vital modernisation programmes.

Key Responsibilities

• End-to-end management of multiple NEC Contracts (across both workstreams).
• Seamless integration of works between all parties, including major contractors and internal teams.
• Ownership and development of AMP & Health & Safety files.
• Deploying and ensuring adherence to Health & Safety Management System.
• Application of key rail regulations.

Ready to Lead this Critical Rail Upgrade?

If you are a strategic leader with the expertise to manage complex, multi‑contractor rail projects with the required rail sector expertise, we want to hear from you.

Please apply now by submitting your CV online or call Linda Davison on phone number removed.

The partnering concept promoted by Vital means that we work together with candidates and clients to achieve your career and recruitment objectives. Our commitment to both candidates and clients is equalled only by our professionalism and dedication to providing the best possible service.

Required Qualifications

• None