At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial strategies for Manchester's Metrolink, managing contracts and driving improvements.
- Company: Transport for Greater Manchester, a key player in public transport innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, free travel, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Greater Manchester's transport system while leading high-stakes projects.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in commercial management and relevant professional qualifications required.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to creating an inclusive workplace.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 ÂŁ per year.
Overview
Senior Commercial Opportunities at TfGM!
It’s a hugely exciting time to join Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM). With record levels of infrastructure investment across our city-region, our commercial teams play a vital role in ensuring every pound delivers real value for our communities. We’re recruiting for two senior roles that sit at the heart of shaping Greater Manchester’s transport future — Senior Cost & Commercial Manager and Senior Commercial Manager (Metrolink Franchising). If you’re passionate about driving value, influencing high‑impact programmes, and helping deliver a greener, more reliable transport network, we’d love to hear from you!
Your Role
We have two fantastic opportunities. Please follow the links for further information.
Senior Cost & Commercial Manager – TfGM | Jobs
You’ll work collaboratively within a matrix environment, supporting major multi‑modal projects through expert cost planning, contract administration (including NEC), financial oversight, and commercial assurance. You’ll lead and develop a team of Cost Managers and Commercial Assistants while partnering closely with colleagues across Finance, Legal, Procurement, and project delivery teams to achieve coordinated, value‑driven outcomes.
Senior Commercial Manager (Metrolink Franchising) – TfGM | Jobs
You’ll play a central role in overseeing the commercial success of the Metrolink network — the UK’s largest light rail system. This includes managing high‑value franchise contracts, leading negotiations, overseeing commercial performance, ensuring compliance, and driving continuous improvement across a £multi‑billion operational environment. You’ll work closely with the Metrolink Operator to ensure robust commercial governance and long‑term value for the region.
Who are we?
Our Commercial Function provides expert commercial, cost and contract management across TfGM’s major projects and operational portfolios. We support programmes that transform how people travel, connect and access opportunities — from infrastructure delivery to network operations. You’ll join a supportive, collaborative team with the opportunity to influence high‑profile work, strengthen commercial capability, and contribute directly to safer, greener and more accessible transport for Greater Manchester.
What you’ll bring
We’re looking for professionals who demonstrate TfGM’s value s of Deliver, Care and Adapt, and who bring:
For the Senior Cost & Commercial Manager:
- Experience across the commercial and contract management lifecycle of infrastructure projects
- Strong knowledge of NEC contracts
- Proven ability to deliver cost‑effective outcomes
- Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management
- Experience leading and developing teams
- Ability to work across departments under time pressure
- A degree in Commercial Management, Quantity Surveying or equivalent experience
For the Senior Commercial Manager (Metrolink Franchising):
- Extensive commercial and financial management experience, ideally within transport operations
- Proven experience delivering and managing large, complex contracts
- Strong negotiation and dispute management capability
- Understanding of financial transactions and commercial risk
- Ability to build strong relationships across diverse teams and partners
(Please evidence how you meet the essential criteria within your cover letter)
What we can offer you
Both roles are permanent and offer a salary of £57,770 – £65,024, depending on skills and experience. You’ll also benefit from:
- 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), increasing with service, with the option to buy more
- Free bus travel across Greater Manchester, plus rail or Metrolink travel to and from work
- Local Government Pension Scheme with life cover
- Enhanced family‑friendly policies
- Hybrid working options and supportive flexible working conversations
- Wellbeing support, personal and career development opportunities, and more!
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior Commercial Manager employer: Transport for Greater Manchester
Contact Detail:
Transport for Greater Manchester Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Commercial Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the transport and public sector, especially those who have experience with TfGM. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about your past experiences in commercial management and how they relate to the role. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and showcase your skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've led teams through complex negotiations or resolved disputes. Highlighting your ability to foster collaboration will resonate well with the hiring team at TfGM.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the company there.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Commercial Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Commercial Manager role. Highlight your experience in commercial and contract management, especially in customer-focused organisations. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Showcase Your Achievements: When filling out your application, don’t just list your responsibilities. Use clear examples of your achievements in previous roles, particularly around complex negotiations and financial oversight. This will help us see the impact you've made!
Follow the Instructions: Read the application instructions carefully! Remember, shortlisting is anonymised, so avoid including your name or contact details on your CV. Following these guidelines will maximise your chances of getting noticed by us.
Be Authentic: While we embrace AI, we value your unique human touch. Make sure your application reflects your personality and experiences. Authenticity can set you apart from other candidates, so let us see the real you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Transport for Greater Manchester
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Commercial Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics related to budgetary control and financial oversight. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets in the past and how you can apply that experience to TfGM's multimillion-pound contracts.
✨Master the Art of Negotiation
Negotiation skills are crucial for this role. Prepare examples of complex negotiations you've led, focusing on the strategies you used to achieve successful outcomes. Think about how you can apply these skills to drive value for TfGM and foster collaborative relationships with stakeholders.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
You'll be leading teams, so it's important to convey your leadership style during the interview. Share specific instances where you've motivated a team or resolved disputes. Highlight your ability to simplify complex issues and engage stakeholders effectively.
✨Understand the Transport Landscape
Familiarise yourself with the transport sector, particularly public transport and procurement processes. Being knowledgeable about TfGM's operations and the Metrolink network will show your genuine interest in the role and help you stand out as a candidate who is ready to contribute to their long-term vision.