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Contract Manager – Rail Replacement

On-site in Crawley·Added yesterday (last checked 27 Oct)

Our summary

Work mode
On-site, Crawley
Contract
Fixed-term
Holiday
25 days holiday + bank holidays

Skills

Requirements

What we're looking for

  • Strong understanding of contract management principles, supplier governance and commercial risk.
  • Knowledge of rail industry operations, disruption management and Rail Replacement delivery.
  • Understanding of rail industry regulatory frameworks and passenger obligations.
  • Excellent contract management and contract interpretation skills.
  • Strong commercial negotiation and influencing skills.

The role

Get your career on track with a team where you can grow, belong and make an impact from day one.

What you'll do

To manage the commercial, contractual and operational aspects of GTR's Rail Replacement contract, ensuring contractual compliance, value for money, supplier performance and regulatory compliance.

The role is responsible for end-to-end contract management, governance, financial assurance, supplier performance, compliance and commercial risk management, working closely with Procurement, Operations, Train Planning, Customer Experience, Finance and external suppliers to protect GTR's commercial position while delivering safe, reliable and customer-focused rail replacement services.

Career Development

At GTR, your career is a journey. We offer clear development pathways, progression opportunities and support to help you grow, whether you are starting out or taking the next step in your railway career.

Our Commitment to DEI

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve, creating a culture where everyone feels welcome, respected, safe and able to be themselves at work.

What You'll Do

  • Own and manage the commercial and contractual lifecycle of the Rail Replacement contract, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and governance standards.
  • Lead supplier governance through regular performance reviews, service meetings and contractual engagement, ensuring suppliers deliver agreed service levels and continuous improvement.
  • Manage contract performance against agreed KPIs, identifying trends, risks and opportunities to improve operational performance and customer experience.
  • Lead the management of contract variations, contractual change mechanisms and commercial negotiations, providing appropriate commercial challenge where required.
  • Review and validate supplier invoices, management fees and contractual charges, ensuring accuracy, transparency and value for money.

What We Can Offer You

At GTR, we are committed to supporting our colleagues both professionally and personally. In return for your skills and dedication, we offer a competitive benefits package including:

  • Final salary pension
  • 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
  • Healthcare
  • Free travel on GTR and sister groups for you and your family
  • 75% off travel on other train operating companies for you, and leisure for your family
  • Discounted Oyster Card
  • Family-friendly policies, including maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental leave
  • Access to StarHub - our employee benefits platform offering discounts with a wide range of retailers and services
  • Career development and progression opportunities across the UK's largest rail networks
  • The opportunity to make a real difference to millions of customer journeys every year.

We will keep candidates informed throughout the process and aim to complete hiring decisions in a timely manner. Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are unfortunately unable to provide individual feedback at the application stage. Please refer to the 'Recruitment Process and Timelines' document attached to this role.

Hiring process

Please complete the application form and submit your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you and exploring whether GTR could be your next career step.

Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

About Govia Thameslink Railway

Industry
Rail

In their own words

About the company & team

Greater Thameslink Railway (GTR) is the UK's largest rail operator, connecting millions of people through Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express services. Through our vision of Creating Great Journeys, we are committed to delivering safe, reliable and customer-focused travel, supporting local communities, and fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and can thrive.

All open roles at Govia Thameslink Railway
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