A little bit about us
East West Rail is one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure projects, a new railway connecting Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge, and a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform transport and economic prospects across the Growth Corridor.
The communities along this corridor contribute around £111 billion to the national economy each year. EWR has the potential to unlock a further £78 billion, supporting new homes, new towns, and regeneration across the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor.
Committed to in full in the Autumn 2024 Budget and the 2025 Spending Review, this is a programme with Government backing, long-term funding certainty, and real national significance.
Role Summary
Few procurement roles in the UK infrastructure market offer the combination of scale, complexity and consequence that this one does. As Procurement Manager in the construction works team, you will be responsible for procuring major works contracts at the heart of a nationally significant construction programme, working with NEC forms of contract across commissions that are substantial in both value and technical complexity.
You will work closely with all parts of the programme from delivery to engineering to operations. Developing procurement strategies, managing end-to-end processes, and ensuring delivery in line with public procurement regulations and EWR Co’s governance standards.
Your work will be visible at senior and executive levels, and your judgement will carry real weight.
This is also a people role. You will line manage and develop an Assistant Procurement Manager, playing a genuine part in building procurement capability across the organisation as the programme grows. For someone who wants to develop as a leader as well as a technical practitioner, that is a meaningful opportunity.
What you will do
- Develop and implement procurement strategies for large-scale and complex construction and works contracts, aligning with EWR Co’s commercial strategy and governance frameworks.
- Manage the end-to-end procurement process from tendering and market engagement through to contract award, including preparation of tender documents, evaluation of proposals, and management of the selection process.
- Conduct market analysis to identify potential suppliers and assess market conditions, working with the Supply Chain team to test alignment with wider HMG and construction policy.
- Ensure compliance with procurement regulations and internal policies throughout, including the issue of public notices and reporting to Cabinet Office and DfT.
- Engagement and stakeholder management across the business and into government teams.
- Collaborate with the Contract Management team to support smooth post-award transition, including through stage 1 contracts and early contractor involvement.
- Monitor and report on procurement performance, identifying and resolving issues as they arise.
- Line manage an Assistant Procurement Manager, supporting their growth through regular reviews, objective-setting, and day-to-day coaching.
- Keep value for taxpayers at the heart of every procurement decision.
- Contribute to EWR Co’s values and ways of working, and support others to do the same.
What we are looking For
You will bring procurement expertise that is genuinely suited to the demands of a major public infrastructure programme. We are not looking for a generalist: this role requires someone who understands NEC contracting, has worked in a major construction environment, knows how to navigate public procurement law, and is confident managing complex supplier relationships at pace.
Essential
- Substantial experience in procurement within infrastructure or construction, with a strong grasp of the full procurement lifecycle.
- A thorough understanding of NEC forms of contract and pricing options.
- Working knowledge of public procurement regulations, including the Procurement Act 2023 and its application in a major programme context.
- Proven negotiation and supplier management skills, with the ability to engage confidently at senior and executive levels.
- Strong analytical skills and a methodical approach to problem-solving.
Desirable
- Experience with e-sourcing tools, particularly Jaggaer.
- Membership of a relevant professional body such as CIPS, or working towards it.
- A relevant degree in surveying, engineering, law, finance, or a related discipline.
What’s in it for you?
Our people make the difference. Working at EWR, you’ll be part of a team that’s collaborative, supportive, and passionate about what we do. Our culture is built on inclusion, trust, and flexibility. We prioritise wellbeing so you can thrive personally and professionally. Here, your voice matters, and you’ll feel truly connected and empowered.
As part of Team EWR, you’ll gain unique breadth, influence, and development that shapes your career. It's a chance to do your best work and make a meaningful impact.
Our hybrid working approach is all about finding the right balance - supporting productivity and flexibility.
Our benefits package is designed to support you through every life stage helping you to be your best, plan for the future, and keep you growing.
- Competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience
- Up to 12% employer pension contribution to support your future
- 36 days annual leave (including bank holidays) plus the option to buy up to 2 extra days
- 2 volunteering days, a chance for you to give back to the community
- Enhanced family-friendly policies to support you and your loved ones
- Find your tribe with our Pride, EWR Women in Rail, Culture Collective and Ability employee network groups
- Life assurance (4x your annual salary) for peace of mind
- Employee Assistance Programme for confidential support when you need it
- Access to Perkbox for a wide range of discounts and wellbeing benefits
- Recognition programme, including quarterly and annual awards
- Advanced learning and development opportunities to help you grow
Diversity and Inclusion:
At East West Railway Company, we’re committed to building an inclusive railway for all. We believe that to do that, we must nurture a diverse team that represents the UK communities that we impact. Our approach is simple - to create an environment where everyone is welcome and able to be themselves. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible and inclusive. If you require any adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know.
We are committed to improving representation across the rail and infrastructure sectors and particularly encourage applications from women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people and others who are currently underrepresented.
This job description outlines key responsibilities but is not exhaustive. Responsibilities may evolve as the programme develops.
East West Railway Company is a new and exciting venture at the forefront of the changing landscape of the rail industry, delivering substantial fast-paced improvement to modernise the railway.
