Framework Commercial Lead – Rail London

Overview

As Framework Commercial Lead, you will oversee up to 400m of rail-related projects over four years for Network Rail, reporting to the Commercial Director. You’ll lead a team of Commercial Managers and Managing Quantity Surveyors, driving financial control, cost forecasting, and CV reporting. You will navigate NEC Target Cost contracts and Network Rail procedures, ensuring strong client relationships and delivery within budget. This is a high-impact role with exposure to major rail frameworks, including potential HS2 work, in a performance-driven contractor environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a large budgeted program and a team of Commercial Managers and Managing Quantity Surveyors
• Manage financial functions: cost management, forecast to completion, CV systems, and financial reporting
• Oversee NEC Target Cost contracts and Network Rail procedures
• Build and maintain client relationships and represent core business values
• Recruitment and interview activities for commercial staff
• Manage delivery risk, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project alignment
• Support business development and secure ongoing framework opportunities (e.g., rail)

Key requirements

• Degree-qualified in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management
• ideally Chartered through RICS
• 10–15 years of relevant experience, with recent similar role
• Understanding of NEC Target Cost
• Experience in civil engineering/rail with a main contractor
• Ability to manage large budgets and teams
• Strong client relationship skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Knowledge of Network Rail procedures
• Strong financial reporting and CV management experience

• leadership
• stakeholder management
• communication
• NEC Target Cost contracts
• Cost management
• Forecasting cost to completion

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