Lead Rail Portfolio Manager

Randstad Cpe London; West of England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Lead Portfolio Manager for a key rail infrastructure project in Bristol. This 6-month contract role involves overseeing critical works and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in the UK rail sector and NEC contract management. Strong stakeholder management skills are essential. Apply now to be a part of driving major rail projects forward.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Portfolio or Project Manager within the UK rail sector.
• Strong, hands‑on experience with NEC contract management.
• In‑depth knowledge of Hazard Management Process and key standards.
• A solid understanding of CSM, Interoperability Regulations, and Product Acceptance processes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee critical works including cable replacement and design.
• Lead the charge for Phase Two of project commencing in May 2026.
• End‑to‑end management of NEC Contracts.
• Integration of works between multiple contractors and internal teams.
• Ownership and development of Health & Safety files.

Skills

Portfolio Manager experience

NEC contract management

Stakeholder management skills

Rail safety governance knowledge

Personal Track Safety eligibility

Job description

Lead Portfolio Manager (Rail Infrastructure)

Location: Bristol

Rate: £440/day (Umbrella)

Contract: 6 Months initially (Inside IR35)

Shape the Future of Critical Rail Infrastructure on Major Projects

Are you an experienced Portfolio or Project Manager with a background in complex, multi-stakeholder rail environments?

Do you thrive on leading high-profile engineering projects from specification through to assurance?

Our Client is looking for a dedicated Lead Portfolio Manager to take charge of two key, high-value projects.

This is a unique initial 6-month contract opportunity to play a central role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of essential rail infrastructure, leveraging your expertise in NEC contracts and rail safety governance.

Your Mission should you chose to accept it:

You will be the central figure leading the development, procurement, and assurance for your assigned projects. Your core mission is to deliver to cost, time, and quality, while rigorously adhering to Legislation, Company Standards, and the PACE framework, all within a safety-first culture.

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.
• In‑depth knowledge and practical application of NR/L2/INI/02009 (The Hazard Management Process) and other key standards.
• A solid understanding of CSM, Interoperability Regulations, and Product Acceptance processes.
• Excellent stakeholder and contractor management and engagement skills, with the ability to integrate complex workstreams.
• Must hold or be eligible to acquire PTS (Personal Track Safety).

Key Responsibilities:

• You’ll oversee critical works including cable replacement and DNO/PSP design, steering the project into its third‑year deliverables for CP7.
• Building on the successful completion of Phase One, you will lead the charge for Phase Two, commencing in May 2026. This involves the complex replacement of the Rigid Overhead Conductor System (ROCS), working alongside Engineering Services Design Delivery (ESDD) team.

• End‑to‑end management of NEC Contracts.
• Seamless integration of works between multiple contractors and internal teams, including design and delivery partners.
• Ownership and development of AMP & Health & Safety files.
• Deploying and ensuring adherence to Network Rail's Health and Safety Management system.
• Application of key regulations including CSM (Common Safety Methods), Interoperability Regulations, and Product Acceptance.

Ready to Drive Major Rail Projects Forward?

If you are a results‑driven leader 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>

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