Procurement Manager (Works) in Milton Keynes

East West Rail is an infrastructure programme linking communities between Oxford and Cambridge. The area is currently let down by a lack of transport choices, and we have a once in a generation opportunity to fix that – improving prosperity for people and places along the way. East West Railway Company was created by the Department for Transport (DfT) to oversee the delivery of East West Rail from construction through to wheels in motion, making sure the railway comes together in the right way. We believe that to create an inclusive railway for all, we must nurture a diverse team that represents the communities we impact. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications of all backgrounds and experiences.

Role Summary

This role will lead and manage the procurement of contracts to support the delivery of the Programme. The role involves developing procurement strategies, overseeing high-value and complex procurement activities, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and organisational standards while coordinating closely with the commercial strategy and contract management teams. The ideal candidate is an experienced senior procurement leader with a track record of managing complex procurement in a fast‑paced construction environment and influencing at executive and stakeholder levels. A strong understanding of NEC forms of contract is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing the procurement of contracts to support the delivery of the programme, coordinating procurement activities, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and organisational standards while working closely with the commercial strategy and contract management teams.
• Develop and implement procurement strategies for large‑scale and complex works contracts.
• Conduct market analysis to identify potential suppliers and assess market conditions.
• Work with the Supply Chain team to undertake market engagement and test alignment to wider HMG and construction policy.
• Lead and manage the end‑to‑end procurement process, from tendering to contract award including the preparation and issue of tender documents, evaluation of proposals, and management of the selection process to support overall business objectives.
• Support the development of the procurement team – line management of an Assistant Procurement Manager, setting annual targets and conducting quarterly and annual performance reviews.
• Ensure compliance with procurement regulations and internal policies throughout the procurement process including issue of relevant public notices and reporting to Cabinet Office and DfT.
• Collaborate with the contract management team to ensure smooth transition post‑contract award, continuing to support Contract Management through any stage 1 contracts or early contractor involvement.
• Monitor and report on procurement performance, identifying and addressing any issues.
• Work closely with the Commercial Strategy and Assurance team to align procurement activities with overall business objectives and governance processes.
• Take responsibility of your own and others’ health and safety by adopting and working to the EWR Co Health and Safety principles.
• Demonstrate a cost‑conscious mindset, keeping taxpayers’ money at the forefront of decisions.
• Show a commitment to innovation by proactively seeking creative solutions to challenges and opportunities.
• Act as a role model for EWR Co’s vision and behaviours, working in ways that are aligned with EWR Co’s ways of working, encouraging and supporting others to do so as well.

This job description provides an outline of the key responsibilities of the role; however, this is not exhaustive and duties may reasonably change as the business evolves.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Experience in procurement, specifically in infrastructure or construction projects.
• Strong understanding of procurement processes and regulations, e.g., Public Contract Regulations.
• Strong understanding of NEC forms of contract and pricing options.
• Proven negotiation and supplier management skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience of e‑Sourcing tools (Jaggaer an advantage).

Education and Qualifications

• Relevant degree desirable, such as surveying, engineering, law, finance or MBA.
• Member of a relevant professional body e.g., CIPS.

Benefits

• 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.
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies to support you and your loved ones.
• 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 on-the‑spot and annual awards.
• Advanced learning and development opportunities to help you grow.

Diversity and Inclusion

We embrace diversity of thought, ensuring our colleagues feel included, engaged and valued. Inclusiveness is not a buzzword; it is a way of being that fuels innovation and connects with customers and communities.

Flexible Working

EWR Co strives to embrace a flexible working environment, accommodating the needs and preferences of employees while achieving business objectives. We work with individuals to assess and accommodate work‑life balance and style.