Senior Rail Commercial Leader (NEC4) – High-Value Projects

Requirements:

• A relevant degree and/or professional qualification (e.g. RICS, CICES), or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience operating at Senior Commercial Manager level within a contractor or consultancy environment.
• Strong pre‑ and post‑contract commercial management expertise across large, complex projects.
• Significant hands‑on experience with the NEC4 Contract Suite.
• A strong track record in subcontractor commercial management and supply chain control.
• A collaborative, client‑focused mindset, with a “win‑win” approach and commercial pragmatism.
• Rail sector experience preferred; however, candidates from related infrastructure environments are welcomed.
• Astute understanding of client behaviours and drivers in major capital delivery programmes.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to lead confidently, influence stakeholders, and work autonomously.
• Strong IT capability aligned to modern commercial and reporting requirements.

What the job involves:

AtkinsRéalis is the UK’s leading Rail consultancy, with ambitious growth plans underpinned by major recent framework wins and a strong forward pipeline. As part of this expansion, we are seeking an experienced Senior Commercial Manager to play a key role in the commercial leadership of our Rail Systems business. You will oversee a diverse portfolio of high‑value infrastructure contracts, including collaborative alliances and frameworks, with individual projects typically ranging from £15m to £100m. Current flagship programmes include the Southern Renewals Enterprise, the National TCSF Framework with Network Rail, Eastern Routes Partnership and projects across Northern Ireland. This is a high‑profile opportunity for a commercially astute leader who thrives in complex environments, enjoys client engagement, and is motivated by driving growth, performance, and value in a fast‑paced capital investment landscape.

Our Rail Systems business is responsible for delivering Design & Build (D&B) rail systems projects across the UK & Ireland. Acting primarily as Principal Contractor for Network Rail, we specialise in the design, construction, testing, and commissioning of major rail systems programmes. We are committed to supporting work–life balance through flexible and hybrid working, operating across multiple UK offices.

• Lead and assure commercial performance across a complex portfolio of rail infrastructure projects, aligned to business objectives and KPIs.
• Act as the primary commercial interface with clients, building strong, trusted relationships and providing clear commercial leadership.
• Operate as a key member of the Commercial Leadership Team, contributing to strategic direction, governance, and decision‑making.
• Own contract administration and change control, ensuring full compliance with NEC4 and contractual obligations.
• Support the proactive management and resolution of claims, disputes, and commercial issues, achieving timely and pragmatic outcomes.
• Manage suppliers and subcontractors to ensure commercial robustness, cost control, and procedural compliance.
• Present commercial positions, risks, and approvals to governance boards and senior leadership as required.
• Review, negotiate, and manage main contracts and subcontracts, identifying, mitigating, and escalating commercial risks in line with governance thresholds.
• Lead compliance with AtkinsRéalis commercial governance, including Stage Gate reviews and approvals.
• Line manage, mentor, and develop commercial teams across the portfolio, while acting as commercial lead on tender and growth opportunities.