On behalf of Network Rail, we are looking for a Contracts Assistant for an initial 3 month contract based hybrid in Milton Keynes.
Network Rail is at the heart of revitalising Britain’s railway. From Crossrail - Europe’s largest civil engineering project - to investment in world-class stations and major programmes of electrification, we are involved in some of the most ambitious and diverse ventures that this country has ever seen. We at Network Rail are dedicated to becoming one of Britain's best employers and believe this starts with placing the candidate at the heart of everything we do!
As a Contracts Assistant, your main responsibilities will be:
- Assisting in the measurement and evaluation of the commercial value of payments, ensuring works are correctly certified prior to authorisation in line with contractual obligations
- Supporting the reporting of all commercial aspects across allocated projects
- Contributing to the preparation of contract specifications and pre-tender documentation
- Assisting with procurement and commercial management activities across a range of contract categories
- Supporting the Strategic Supplier Management team with day-to-day activities and coordination
- Assisting in managing supplier relationships, including supporting performance monitoring and engagement activities
- Collecting, managing, and analysing data from various systems to support reporting requirements
- Developing dashboards and reports (e.g. Power BI) to track KPIs and supplier performance
- Preparing presentations and materials for senior leadership (SLT), translating data into clear insights
- Ensuring accurate data entry, documentation, and maintenance of contract and supplier records
- Working flexibly across contract management and project support activities, providing assistance where required
- Supporting adherence to governance, processes, and compliance requirements
Essential:
- Proven ability to work to tight deadlines and follow mandated processes with a high level of accuracy
- Strong administration and analytical skills with attention to detail
- Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills
- Good commercial awareness with an understanding of contract management principles
- Customer-focused approach with a commitment to delivering high-quality service
- StrongIT skills, including:
- Microsoft Office applications (particularly PowerPoint)
- Experience with Copilot (AI), Power BI, and Oracle or similar systems
- Ability to communicate effectively at all levels, both internally and externally
- Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach
Desirable:
- Previous experience in a contracts, procurement, or supplier management role
- Familiarity with Strategic Supplier Management frameworks and best practices
- Experience working in a regulated or process-driven environment
- Knowledge of contract lifecycle management systems
- Ability to analyse data and present findings clearly to stakeholders
- Experience supporting supplier performance management or governance activities
Please be aware that this role can only be worked within the UK and not Overseas.
Network Rail is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. They welcome applications from everyone.
Disability Confident
As a member of the Disability Confident Scheme, Network Rail guarantees to interview all candidates who have a disability and who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of candidates who have a disability who meet all the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. This scheme encourages candidates with a disability and/or neurodivergence to apply. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.
Armed Forces Covenant
Network Rail guarantees to interview veterans or spouses / partners of military personnel who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. In cases where we have a high volume of ex-military candidates / military spouses or partners, who meet all of the essential criteria, we will interview the best candidates from within that group. In exceptional circumstances, we may also need to apply the desirable criteria in our shortlisting process which may include holding active security clearance.
In applying for this role, you acknowledge the following "this role falls in scope of the Off Payroll Working in the Public Sector legislation. Any rates of payment quoted will reflect the gross rate per day for the assignment and will be subject to appropriate taxes and statutory costs. As such the payment to the intermediary and your income resulting from this contract will be different".
