At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead commercial management for major rail projects and support client success.
- Company: Join WSP, a global leader in engineering and professional services.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, health perks, and a focus on work-life balance.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on significant rail programmes while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Quantity Surveying or related field; experience in rail or infrastructure preferred.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.
A little more about your role… We are looking for a Commercial Manager to join our growing PMCM Rail team, supporting the successful delivery of some of the UK’s most significant rail and transport programmes.
As a Commercial Manager, you will play a key role in helping our clients deliver complex rail projects of regional and national importance. Working within client organisations and integrated delivery teams, you’ll support robust commercial governance, financial control and risk management across multi-disciplinary programmes. This is a fantastic opportunity for a commercially focused professional with experience in the rail or wider infrastructure sector who is looking to further develop their expertise in a client-facing environment. You’ll work alongside client Project Managers, suppliers, contractors and delivery partners, helping to drive commercial performance from project initiation through to completion.
At WSP, no two days are the same. You could be reviewing project budgets and cost forecasts, supporting procurement activities, advising on commercial strategy, managing change events, or helping resolve contractual issues on major infrastructure programmes. You'll have the opportunity to build strong stakeholder relationships, take ownership of key commercial activities and contribute directly to successful project outcomes.
Our PMCM Rail team works across a diverse portfolio of programmes for clients including rail infrastructure owners, transport authorities and major project delivery organisations. Experience with organisations such as Network Rail, HS2, TfGM or similar rail delivery bodies would be highly beneficial.
We believe the best solutions are created through collaboration. You'll work flexibly across WSP offices, client offices and project sites while benefiting from a hybrid working approach that supports both client engagement and work-life balance.
In this role, you will:
- Develop and maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships, providing commercial support and advice.
- Prepare monthly commercial, cost and risk reports to support project decision-making.
- Support commercial management activities in line with contractual requirements and client governance processes.
- Manage project budgets, cost forecasting, tracking and reporting activities.
- Support procurement activities, including reviewing and negotiating commercial terms with suppliers and contractors.
- Contribute to effective supply chain management, promoting collaboration and positive working relationships.
- Ensure compliance with client commercial procedures and standards.
- Review project expenditure, invoices and commercial submissions.
- Participate in commercial meetings with contractors, suppliers and delivery partners.
- Administer contracts throughout the project lifecycle, from award through to final close-out.
- Support the management of change events, including variations, claims and compensation events.
- Monitor contract performance and assist with resolving commercial issues and contractual correspondence.
- Undertake financial forecasting and support risk identification and mitigation activities.
- Support resource planning to help achieve commercial and programme objectives.
- Identify and manage commercial risks, supporting early warning processes and risk reduction activities.
What we will be looking for you to demonstrate…
- A degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or a related discipline.
- Professional accreditation, working towards accreditation, or an interest in pursuing professional qualifications such as MRICS or MCIOB.
- Experience in commercial management within the rail or wider infrastructure sector.
- Experience supporting the delivery of infrastructure projects within a client, contractor or consultancy environment.
- Knowledge of organisations such as Network Rail, HS2, TfGM or other rail delivery bodies would be advantageous.
- A track record of contributing to successful commercial outcomes on infrastructure projects.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to build and maintain positive working relationships.
- Proficiency in commercial management systems, tools and software.
- A good understanding of NEC3 and NEC4 contracts and commercial management principles.
- A proactive approach to problem-solving, risk management and continuous improvement.
Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.
With us, you can. Apply today.
We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long-lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 11,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Work-life balance: At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community. Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
- Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP.
- Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most.
- Flex your time: To enhance work-life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part-time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.
- Your development: We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.
#WeAreWSP Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.
Full time Posting Date: 2026-07-29
Commercial Manager (PMCM Rail) in Birmingham employer: WSP Group
WSP is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion, making it an ideal place for a Commercial Manager in the rail sector. With a strong commitment to work-life balance, flexible working arrangements, and a focus on employee development, WSP empowers its team members to thrive both personally and professionally. Located in the UK, you will have the opportunity to engage with landmark projects while collaborating with a diverse group of talented professionals dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities we serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager (PMCM Rail) in Birmingham
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like WSP Group, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Commercial Manager (PMCM Rail) at WSP Group.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager (PMCM Rail) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP Group
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!