Project Accountant in Peterborough

As our Project Accountant at GB Railfreight, you will work on the national ERTMS industry project. This project sees Network Rail (NR) integrate the digital transformation of signals to the East Coast Main Line and is now in the stage of delivery and needs a full time accountant to manage the growing needs. The time of this resource will be split between the ERTMS project and other finance reporting requirements. The salary is up to £40k depending on experience and qualifications. This role involves frequent travel, with a base in either Peterborough or Felixstowe, and a willingness to travel is essential. We are looking for a CIMA/ACCA part qualified candidate. This role is full-time (37 hours per week). There may be some flexibility for hybrid working once fully trained; however an on‑site presence will be required initially.

Main Responsibilities:

• Update and submit claims to Network Rail.
• Manage COWD process (cost of work done).
• Prepare project budget and update forecasts.
• Track and collate FCA (freight commercial agreement) variations / business cases.
• Assist with raising and tracking purchase orders for the project.
• Periodically collate total project cost including expenses for project staff and adhoc staff to reclaim from NR.
• Present project financial performance in internal and external meetings.
• Manage the COWD Audit process.
• Manage cover loco provision finances from costing to ensuring we are paid by Network Rail.
• Support FSIP (freight safety improvement plans) and other network rail related claims and funding.
• Adhoc finance requirements as the need arises.

Skills and Experience:

• Previous experience working in a similar role.
• Qualifications: CIMA/ACCA Part Qualified.
• A strong level of computer literacy, especially using MS office applications.
• Ability to influence internal and external non‑financial stakeholders.
• Highly organised, methodical, able to multi‑task successfully and work on your own initiative.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Business Central Finance System and previous experience working within the rail industry are desirable.

Our Values:

• Professionalism – Safety and security are paramount in our business, and we believe this forms the foundation of a high‑achieving safety culture.
• Support – We look after our people, and they in turn are encouraged to look after each other.
• Communication – Transparency in our business is valued by both colleagues and customers.
• Trust and Empowerment – We believe openness and honesty create the best relationships, building trust and confidence.
• Enjoyment – Taking pleasure in coming to work at GBRf is actively encouraged, right from the top.

Key Benefits of Working With Us:

• A generous healthcare package.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Program, supporting employees with any personal or work‑related problems providing a Wellbeing platform and access to counselling services.
• An online benefits portal offering hundreds of discounts at nationwide retailers.
• An electric vehicle scheme (available after your first 12 months).
• Regular social events, including days out for you and your family.
• Training and development opportunities, including internal courses and external certifications through our industry‑renowned development programs.
• We prioritise your growth in line with our people‑centric culture.

Inclusion Without Exclusion:

At GB Railfreight, we recognise that a more diverse range of people leads to greater innovation. We recruit and develop people best suited to the role requirements, regardless of background. Our aim is to create a diverse workforce that reflects wider society. We champion diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing in the workplace, in alignment with our values. If you're as passionate about Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) as we are, we invite new employees to join our People and Culture working group and contribute to the ongoing work in this area.