Commercial Manager

Location: Manchester
Salary: Competitive/Negotiable dependent on experience
Reporting to: Commercial Director / Senior Commercial Manager
Contract Type: Permanent / Full-Time

Role Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Commercial Manager with a strong background in the rail sector and in-depth knowledge of NEC (New Engineering Contract) forms of contract. The successful candidate will play a key role in managing the commercial and contractual aspects of our rail projects, ensuring effective cost management, contract compliance, and commercial governance.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a dynamic and growing team working on high-profile infrastructure projects.

Key Responsibilities:
• Lead the commercial management of rail infrastructure projects from pre-contract through to final account.
• Provide strategic commercial advice to project teams and senior management.
• Administer and manage NEC contracts (Options A, C, E etc.), ensuring compliance with contract provisions.
• Prepare and manage project budgets, forecasts, and cost plans.
• Manage risk and opportunity within projects, ensuring commercial risks are identified and mitigated.
• Lead on contract change management, including Compensation Events, Early Warnings, and variations.
• Liaise closely with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to manage commercial relationships.
• Lead the procurement of subcontract packages and manage subcontractor performance.
• Ensure robust reporting of commercial performance, including CVR (Cost Value Reconciliation) reporting.
• Support dispute resolution processes, including preparation of claims and negotiation of settlements.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior commercial staff within the team.

Essential Requirements:
• Proven experience as a Commercial Manager (or Senior Quantity Surveyor ready to step up) within the rail infrastructure sector.
• Strong working knowledge of NEC Contracts (Options A, C, E etc.) – with demonstrable experience of contract administration and commercial management under NEC conditions.
• Experience working on infrastructure projects within a regulated environment.
• Excellent commercial and financial acumen.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to lead commercial strategy and influence project outcomes.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills.

Qualifications:
• Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Professional membership (or working towards) with RICS, ICES, or equivalent professional body desirable.
• NEC Contract Accreditation or formal NEC training advantageous.

Desirable:
• Experience working for a Tier 1 Contractor or Client-side within rail infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of Network Rail standards and governance processes.
• Experience managing multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Familiarity with cost management software and reporting tools.

Benefits:
• Competitive salary and package.
• Pension scheme.
• Professional development support.
• Flexible / hybrid working arrangements.