It's an exciting time to join our Bus Contracts team as we continue our transformation journey. Reporting to the Bus Contract Manager, you will play a vital role in supporting the safe and compliant operation of Nexus Tyne & Wear Secured Bus services.
As Assistant Contracts Manager (Bus) you will assist in the contract management of secured bus services, and other related contracts. You will ensure adherence to contract compliance and budgetary targets, participate in the procurement process and ensure that operator delivery meets all necessary legislation, targets and service levels.
If you are highly analytical, a greater communicator with a laser sharp attention to detail, commercial acumen and demonstrable experience in contract, supplier or cost management then this may be the role for you.
Typical Day
- Take the lead in overseeing Nexus and contractor obligations under the Secured Bus Services contracts and related contracts.
- Take overall day to day management responsibility for the technical operation, monitoring and provision of advice on all performance regimes within those contracts.
- Take responsibility for progressing regular occurrences under contracts including performance assessments, deductions, additional payments and forecasts.
- Management of change controls and variations registers
- Identify risk mitigation measures and invest to save measures (Risk and Opportunity Management).
- Preparing and collating period end reporting.
- Assist with the development and management of a Quality Management System for service contracts within the responsibility of the post holder.
- Provide support and advice to contract managers across Nexus, in establishing contract management arrangements and support on issues arising under contracts.
About You
- Demonstrable experience in contract management, supplier relationship management, and cost management.
- Strong understanding of risk management principles and their application within contract management.
- Experienced in interpreting and managing legal contracts, including high-value and complex agreements.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other analytical systems, with strong data analysis capabilities.
- Skilled in cost variation management, change control processes, and financial performance monitoring.
- Ability to produce clear, comprehensive reports and present complex information effectively.
- Strong commercial awareness with proven negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
- Experienced in developing and maintaining positive relationships with suppliers and key stakeholders.
- Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills, with the ability to identify risks and opportunities.
- Able to prioritise workload, meet deadlines, and deliver results in a demanding business environment.
- Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of using initiative to solve problems and improve processes.
- Experience of leading, managing, or supervising people, with the ability to support and develop others.
- Committed to collaboration, consultation, and continuous improvement to achieve organisational objectives.
Who we are looking for
You must be able to work collaboratively as part of a team that lives our company values every day supporting each other, delivering exceptional service, and creating a positive, respectful environment for colleagues and customers alike.
As a colleague within Nexus, you will take pride in delivering your best performance, respecting others and working towards team goals through collaboration, agility and embracing learning opportunities.
Our Team
You will join a diverse and knowledgeable Bus Contracts team that is passionate about providing safe, compliant and high-quality bus services to our passengers.
Working closely with Network Planning, Ticketing and Information colleagues, bus operators and external stakeholders you'll have the opportunity to make a genuine contribution to the safe operation of Nexus Bus, while developing your own expertise within a professional contract management environment.
About Us
We care for our communities, deliver with trust and accountability, and adapt with innovation. Every journey is designed to be sustainable, inclusive, and customer-focused because when we move forward together, we create a cleaner environment, a stronger economy, and a better future for all.
What we offer
- This is a Monday to Friday job
- You'll work a 36-hour week
- You'll be part of a generous pension scheme (Local Government Pension Scheme)
- 28 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays and time off for volunteering too
- Enjoy travelling for free in Tyne and Wear with our enhanced travel benefits for you and your family
- Free or discounted travel with Grand Central, LNER, Lumo, Northern Rail and TransPennine Express
- You will have the opportunity to contribute to a health cash plan that will contribute (and dependants if you have them) towards dental costs, optical, and lots more
- Access to our reward app with over 1000 plus high street discounts on groceries, holidays and days out
- We like to grow our own colleagues (not literally of course!), so when you're ready for the next step in your career, we can help develop you
What to expect at interview
Our selection process includes a structured interview. Interviews will take place the week commencing 31 August 2026.
Assistant Contracts Manager- Bus in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: North East Combined Authority
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Contact Details:
North East Combined Authority Recruitment Team
