Job Description

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Location

Milton Keynes, GB#

Department Name

ET RS CP MOL & Sig Sourcing (450193) G2#

About Network Rail

About Network Rail

Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter

If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!

Vacancy Details

Duration:

Permanent

Location:

This role is based in The Quadrant MK This role is a full-time opportunity, flexible working patterns will be considered. For Quadrant:MK, you must live within 90 minutes.

Band & Salary:

Band 3C 55,596 - 65,966











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Brief Description

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Sourcing Manager to join the Road Logistics and Materials team in Direct Sourcing. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in procurement and strategic sourcing, with the ability to deliver value through effective commercial and contractual solutions. A sound understanding of public procurement regulations -- including the requirements of the Procurement Act 2023 -- is essential, alongside strong stakeholder engagement and negotiation skills. This is a key role in ensuring our sourcing activity supports business needs while upholding transparency, fairness, and sustainability.











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About the role (External)

About the team..

You'll be joining a supportive, inclusive and collaborative Commercial & Procurement team that plays a key role in keeping Britain's railways running efficiently and safely. We work closely with a wide range of stakeholders across the Supply Chain Operations, to deliver value for money, ensure compliance, and support strategic objectives. It's a fast-paced and dynamic environment where your ideas are valued, and professional development is encouraged. We specialise in the procurement of rail infrastructure materials (track, signalling & telecoms, electrification & fixed plant - most of which are subject to Network Rail's Product Acceptance process), road fleet (vehicle supply and management, telematics, fuel cards) and road logistics (road haulage and warehousing) requirements for our customers.

What does the average day look like?

No two days are the same as a Sourcing Manager at Network Rail. You'll be at the heart of major sourcing activities, directly procuring goods and services that are critical to the safe and efficient operation of the railway -- from infrastructure maintenance materials to frontline support services. Whether you're leading multi-million-pound tenders, shaping category strategies, or managing complex stakeholder relationships across a devolved organisation, your work will directly support operational delivery. You'll navigate the requirements of public sector procurement, including the Procurement Act 2023, ensuring compliance while driving commercial value. With a blend of strategic thinking, hands-on negotiation, and continuous improvement, you'll play a key role in building a best-in-class procurement function that meets the demands of today and the ambitions of tomorrow.

Essential Criteria

Educated to a Business or Economics degree standard or equivalent business experience


Deep level of Sourcing experience, with a demonstrable track record of savings delivery


Demonstrable level of negotiation and dispute resolution skill set


Demonstrable experience of contract law and financial management


Demonstrable experience of driving value from complex sourcing opportunities


Experienced with agile cross-functional collaborative working methods


Politically savvy, with the proven ability to use direct and indirect influencing strategies at an executive level


Demonstrable level of problem-solving experience of complex sourcing specific challenges


Completer finisher mindset


Please see attached job description for full details.

Desirable Criteria

Line management experience


Detailed knowledge of the UK Rail Industry, including procurement processes in a reclassified environment

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How to apply (External)

Additional Information

Closing date:

22nd October. On occasions, we may need to close the advert early based upon application volumes. Late applications may not be accepted.

Next Steps:

Interviews will be held 3rd November, depending on business requirements.


Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our Safety Vision

Some of our great benefits:

Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.


Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.


Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass.


Defined benefit pension scheme


75% subsidy on train tickets.


? Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.


? Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.


Plus more
.