At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Contract Managers in managing contracts and ensuring successful outcomes.
- Company: Join East West Rail, a vital project enhancing transport connections.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension contributions, and flexible working.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities while developing your career in contract management.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree or progress through a professional body like RICS.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
A little bit about us: East West Rail is a nationally significant railway project which aims to deliver much-needed transport connections for the vibrant communities between Oxford, Milton Keynes, Bedford and Cambridge. These communities blend beautiful landscapes and a rich cultural heritage with globally renowned centres of education, business, technology and an increasingly dynamic business scene. Together they contribute around £111 billion to the national economy each year.
Role Summary: This role will provide support to Contract Managers across defined categories and directorates within East West Rail. You will support the implementation and operation of robust processes over the commercial affairs of East West Rail and help ensure that contracts are successfully managed to deliver the expected outcomes. As an Assistant Contract Manager, you may be called upon to support different stages of the procurement lifecycle; however the principal focus will be the management of contractual obligations, variations, supplier performance and payments.
Key Responsibilities
- Work with stakeholders to understand the needs of the business.
- Develop a good understanding of key contracts assigned, including the products/services being bought, pricing, processes, opportunities and risks.
- Support the implementation of effective contract management plans, providing support to Contract Managers as required.
- Support the production of commercial correspondence and records, and contractual notices for issue in accordance with contractual conditions.
- Support the assessment and valuation of supplier/contractor applications and processing of payment certification in accordance with processes, contractual terms and conditions and commensurate with contractual entitlement.
- Monitor and report spend, risk, performance and contract obligations through KPIs and SLAs across a portfolio of contracts using the tools and systems provided.
- Develop a good understanding of the Contract Management System and follow the processes to ensure the database is kept up to date.
- Support the administration of contract electronic communication software.
- Support engagement with internal stakeholders to build close, trusted relationships and to ensure a full understanding of expected outcomes.
- If requested by the Head of Contract Management, support Finance and their Purchase to Pay Team, providing holiday cover for the Accounts Payable Assistant.
- Support the analysis of contract data to identify opportunities to work closer with strategic suppliers, improve processes or work differently to create additional value for EWR and its stakeholders.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Actively progressing through a relevant professional body such as RICS.
- Relevant degree desirable, such as surveying, engineering, law, finance or MBA.
Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Up to 12% employer’s pension contribution
- 36 days holiday a year (including bank holidays) + up to 2 days to buy
- Life assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to a range of benefits on the Perkbox platform
- On‑the‑spot and annual awards
- Advanced learning and development programmes
- Great work‑life balance and flexible working opportunities
- Enhanced family‑friendly policies
- Exceptional IT tools
Diversity and Inclusion
To discover the best solutions, it’s important we embrace diversity of thought. That’s why we aim to ensure our colleagues feel included, engaged and valued. Inclusiveness is not a buzzword, but a way of being. Our approach to diversity is simple – a workplace where everyone is welcome and everyone is encouraged to be themselves. It helps fuel our innovation and connects us with the customers and communities we serve.
We are open to secondments through the Rail Industry Talent Exchange Programme.
Assistant Contract Manager employer: East West Rail Company
East West Rail is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Milton Keynes that fosters professional growth and development. With competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The company prioritises work-life balance and provides access to advanced learning programmes, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the transport sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Contract Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. The more connections we have, the better our chances of landing that Assistant Contract Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching East West Rail and understanding their projects. We should be ready to discuss how our skills align with their goals and how we can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions and scenarios related to contract management. We can even do mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost our confidence and refine our answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep an eye on any updates or new opportunities that pop up.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Contract Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Assistant Contract Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially around contract management and stakeholder engagement.
Showcase Your Understanding:Demonstrate your knowledge of East West Rail and its significance in the transport sector. Mention how your background can contribute to the project’s goals and the communities it serves.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon to ensure your message is easily understood by the hiring team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at East West Rail Company
✨Know Your Contracts
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of the key contracts relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with the products and services involved, as well as any pricing structures. This will show your potential employer that you're proactive and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Demonstrate your ability to work with various stakeholders by preparing examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve built trusted relationships, as this is crucial for an Assistant Contract Manager.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you would monitor and report on spend, risk, and performance. Bring examples of how you've used KPIs and SLAs in previous roles to drive improvements. This will illustrate your analytical mindset and your ability to add value to the team.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Research East West Rail and its impact on the communities it serves. Being able to articulate how your role as an Assistant Contract Manager fits into the larger goals of the project will impress your interviewers and show your commitment to the organisation's mission.
