Sourcing Specialist - C&P

Network Rail; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Network Rail is seeking a proactive Sourcing Specialist to join their Commercial & Procurement team. This full-time role involves shaping sourcing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring compliance with procurement standards. The ideal candidate will have strong negotiation skills and a background in procurement within a regulated environment. Flexible working patterns are considered, and the position is based in Milton Keynes.

Benefits

Flexible/hybrid working considered

Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days)

Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass

Defined benefit pension scheme

75% subsidy on train tickets

Interest-free travel loans for season tickets

Volunteer leave

Qualifications

• Proven sourcing experience with a track record of delivering savings.
• Politically aware, with influencing strategies at an executive level.

Responsibilities

• Shape and deliver sourcing strategies from initial need to contract signature.
• Implement category plans, negotiate savings, and manage sourcing activities.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Problem Solving

Education

Business or Economics degree

Tools

e-sourcing tools

Job description

Location

Milton Keynes, GB

Department Name

Commercial and Procurement (C&P)

About Network Rail

At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team - you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. Click here to learn more.

We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process. You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support.

If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!

Duration

Permanent

Location

This role is based in The Quadrant:MK. This is a full-time opportunity; flexible working patterns will be considered. For Quadrant:MK, you must live within 90 minutes.

Band & Salary

4B £35,582 - £40,830

Brief Description

Who are we looking for?

We’re seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Sourcing Specialist with a strong background in procurement, ideally within a regulated or public sector environment. You should have a solid understanding of sourcing strategies and contract management, with the ability to navigate complex procurement frameworks. The ideal candidate will be a confident communicator, skilled at building relationships with stakeholders and suppliers, and comfortable using e-sourcing tools to deliver value for the business.

About The Role (External)

About the team

You’ll join a supportive and collaborative Commercial & Procurement team that plays a key role in keeping Britain’s railways running efficiently and safely. We work closely with a wide range of stakeholders to deliver value for money, ensure compliance, and support strategic objectives. It’s a fast-paced environment where your ideas are valued and professional development is encouraged.

What does the average day look like?

As a Sourcing Specialist, you’ll shape and deliver sourcing strategies from initial need to contract signature. Working with stakeholders, you’ll implement category plans, negotiate savings, and manage sourcing activities in line with standards. You’ll drive continuous improvement, support supplier transitions, and contribute to wider commercial goals, ensuring an excellent internal customer experience. Your work will directly support Network Rail’s vision and our aim to be a best-in-class procurement function.

Essential Criteria

• Educated to a Business or Economics degree standard or equivalent experience
• Proven sourcing experience with a track record of delivering savings
• Negotiation and dispute resolution skills
• Knowledge of contract law and financial management
• Experience in extracting value from sourcing opportunities
• Experience with agile, cross-functional collaboration
• Politically aware, with influencing strategies at an executive level
• Ability to solve complex sourcing challenges
• Completer finisher mindset

Desirable Criteria

• Knowledge of the UK Rail Industry and procurement in a reclassified environment
• Experience with sourcing technology solutions

How To Apply (External)

Additional Information

Closing date: 16th May. Applications may close early based on volume. Late applications may not be accepted.

Interviews are scheduled for the week commencing 2nd May, depending on business needs.

All offers are conditional upon satisfactory pre-employment checks. More information.

Benefits

• Flexible/hybrid working considered
• Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with buy/sell options
• Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass
• Defined benefit pension scheme
• 75% subsidy on train tickets
• Interest-free travel loans for season tickets
• Volunteer leave
• And more…