At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement for major rail projects, managing sourcing and supplier relationships.
- Company: Dynamic rail infrastructure company focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Equal opportunity employer valuing diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Join a vital sector and contribute to impactful rail infrastructure projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in procurement within UK rail and strong negotiation skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced Procurement Specialist to support the delivery of major rail infrastructure projects across Signalling, Control Systems, and E&P programmes. The role will focus on strategic sourcing, supplier management, subcontract procurement, and commercial support across complex rail frameworks and capital delivery projects. The successful candidate will work closely with project delivery, engineering, commercial, and supply chain teams to ensure materials, subcontractors, and specialist services are procured in line with programme, budget, quality, and rail compliance requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead procurement activities for rail signalling and E&P packages on major infrastructure projects.
- Manage end-to-end sourcing processes including RFQs, ITTs, tender evaluations, negotiations, and contract awards.
- Develop and maintain supplier relationships across rail systems, civils, M&E, signalling equipment, and electrical infrastructure.
- Support NEC contract administration and procurement governance processes.
- Work with project managers and planners to ensure procurement schedules align with delivery milestones.
- Identify cost-saving and value engineering opportunities within the supply chain.
- Ensure suppliers comply with Network Rail standards, RISQS requirements, safety regulations, and project specifications.
- Monitor supplier performance, lead times, delivery risks, and mitigation plans.
- Support framework procurement activities for CP7 and major enhancement schemes.
- Produce procurement reports, spend analysis, and KPI tracking for senior stakeholders.
Required Experience
- Previous procurement or supply chain experience within UK rail infrastructure projects.
- Strong understanding of rail signalling and/or E&P systems.
- Experience working on major projects, frameworks, or multidisciplinary rail programmes.
- Knowledge of Network Rail standards and procurement compliance processes.
- Experience procuring subcontractors, materials, and specialist rail services.
- Familiarity with NEC contracts and commercial procedures.
- Strong stakeholder management and supplier negotiation skills.
- Ability to manage multiple procurement packages simultaneously.
Preferred Qualifications
- CIPS qualification (Level 4-6 desirable).
- Degree or equivalent in Supply Chain, Procurement, Engineering, Business, or Commercial Management.
- RISQS or rail industry experience preferred.
- Understanding of signalling systems such as interlockings, trackside equipment, telecoms, or SCADA advantageous.
- Knowledge of HV/LV electrical systems, OLE, substations, or power distribution beneficial for E&P-focused roles.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Procurement Specialist – Rail in Birmingham employer: Advance Training & Recruitment Services
As a leading employer in the rail infrastructure sector, we offer a dynamic work environment in Birmingham, Derby, or Ireland, where innovation and collaboration thrive. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and a culture that values diversity and inclusion, ensuring every team member can contribute meaningfully to major projects. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that prioritises safety, compliance, and excellence in delivering critical rail signalling and electrification solutions.
Contact Detail:
Advance Training & Recruitment Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Specialist – Rail in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the rail industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their procurement processes and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. We want you to shine, so practice common interview questions and have your own questions ready!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills through real-life examples. When discussing your experience, highlight specific projects where you’ve led procurement activities or managed supplier relationships. This will help us see how you can add value to our team!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our team. So, get that application in and let’s make great things happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Specialist – Rail in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Procurement Specialist role. Highlight your experience in rail infrastructure projects and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about rail signalling and E&P projects. Share specific examples of your previous work that demonstrate your procurement expertise and how you can add value to our team.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your negotiation skills and supplier management experience. We’re looking for someone who can manage multiple procurement packages, so make sure to mention any relevant achievements or projects that showcase these abilities.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Advance Training & Recruitment Services
✨Know Your Procurement Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of procurement processes, especially in the rail sector. Understand the ins and outs of RFQs, ITTs, and NEC contracts. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the terms but can apply them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Supplier Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed supplier relationships in the past. Highlight any cost-saving initiatives or value engineering opportunities you've identified. This will demonstrate your ability to add value to the procurement process and align with the company's goals.
✨Align with Project Delivery
Familiarise yourself with how procurement schedules fit into project delivery milestones. Be ready to discuss how you would ensure that procurement activities support timely project completion. This shows that you understand the bigger picture and can work collaboratively with project managers.
✨Be Ready for Compliance Questions
Expect questions about compliance with Network Rail standards and safety regulations. Prepare to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles. This will reassure the interviewers that you take safety and regulatory requirements seriously, which is crucial in the rail industry.
