Commercial Director
Membership of a relevant professional body (e g RICS CIPS) or equivalent relevant experience
Educated to degree level
Proven strong leadership skills
Demonstrable strong interpersonal skills possessing the ability to interact credibly with people at all levels
Successful significant experience of various standard forms of contract and their application and or amendment to reflect particular contractual circumstances
Successful significant experience in the commercial management of high value complex contracting situations
Able to demonstrate exceptional negotiating skills and successful experience in the negotiation and resolution of complex claimsRelevant experience in the successful contract and procurement management of major programmes of work in the construction and or rail industries
Proven experience in and knowledge of contract law contractual litigation and contractual dispute resolution
Demonstrable strong commercial focus articulate and financially astute with excellent numeracy and analytical skills
The Director Commercial Operations is responsible for leading and managing all post-contract commercial activities across capital (Capex) and operational (Opex) expenditure programmes This role ensures the effective implementation of robust commercial strategies that drive value for money efficiency and compliance with public sector procurement regulations including the Procurement Act
The postholder will play a critical role in contract management financial control supplier performance and risk management ensuring that all commercial activities align with government policies Network Rail standards and public sector governance requirements They will oversee contracts held with suppliers train operators freight operators and other rail operators
Additionally the Head of Commercial Delivery will provide leadership to the commercial team fostering a high-performing and accountable commercial function Through strong stakeholder engagement they will drive informed decision-making ensuring commercial risks are managed effectively while delivering programmes on time within budget and in line with regulatory and sustainability commitments
1 Direct the implementation of suitable and robust commercial strategies for all Capex and Opex programmes working closely with programme and procurement teams to identify optimal routes to market2 Lead the management of post-contract activities to maintain adherence to agreed commercial frameworks and risk management practices
3 Lead the development and negotiation of bespoke commercial agreements with rail operators that support delivery of complex programmes
4 Maintain oversight of contract performance monitoring supplier adherence to agreed KPIs and contractual obligations while upholding compliance with the Procurement Act s provisions on contract modifications ensuring transparency and justifiable changes
5 Monitor the application of agreed controls and audit regimes to uphold compliance with Network Rail procedures Railway Group standards and government audit requirements Oversee Level 1 commercial assurance for commercial activities6 Provide assurance that AFCs and budget authority are accurately represented with any variances clearly explained to senior stakeholders Uphold adherence to value-for-money principles and public sector affordability constraints
- Lead a structured change control process guaranteeing that all contract modifications are legally compliant under the Procurement Act and provide value for money Maintain clear documentation and justification for all contract variations securing approvals through appropriate governance structures
8 Lead supplier performance management overseeing commercial arrangements to drive continuous improvement and value delivery Resolve disputes effectively ensuring commercial interests are safeguarded while