Contract Manager

As a Contract Manager, you will take ownership of a portfolio of contracts and work closely with internal stakeholders, suppliers and the wider

Procurement team to maximise commercial value, manage risk and drive contractual performance.

You will champion best practice contract management, ensuring contracts are managed consistently in line with Avanti West Coast’s Contract Management Framework, policies and processes. Through effective supplier relationship management, performance monitoring and commercial oversight, you will help deliver positive business outcomes and continuous improvement throughout the contract lifecycle.

• Contract Management: Manage a portfolio of high-value and strategic contracts, ensuring compliance with contractual terms, service level agreements (SLAs) and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong working relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders, driving collaboration, accountability and improved performance.
• Performance Monitoring: Lead supplier performance reviews, monitor KPIs and SLAs, identify areas for improvement and address performance issues promptly and effectively.
• Commercial Value and Savings: Identify and deliver opportunities for cost savings, improved contract value, innovation and greater commercial effectiveness.
• Risk and Issue Management: Proactively identify, assess and manage contractual risks and issues, resolving disputes where possible and escalating matters through the appropriate channels when required.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with stakeholders and Executive Directors, providing clear reporting, commercial insight and updates on supplier and contract performance.
• Best Practice and Governance: Support the consistent application of Avanti West Coast’s Contract Management Framework, providing guidance and advice to contract managers across the business.
• Procurement Collaboration: Partner with the wider Procurement team to ensure new procurement projects incorporate effective contract management arrangements and deliver quality, value for money and alignment with business strategy.
• Contract Administration: Maintain accurate and up-to-date contract documentation, pricing information and records, ensuring central agreements are recorded and managed effectively.

About You

We are looking for someone who combines strong commercial acumen with excellent relationship management and the ability to drive performance across a diverse portfolio of contracts.

You will ideally bring:

• Proven experience in contract management, supplier relationship management or a commercial procurement environment.
• Experience managing complex, high-value or strategic contracts throughout their lifecycle.
• A strong understanding of contractual terms, SLAs, KPIs, supplier performance management and contract compliance.
• The ability to identify commercial opportunities, deliver savings and manage contractual risks effectively.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the confidence to influence at all levels of an organisation.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills, with the ability to interpret performance data and turn insights into actionable improvements.
• Experience managing contractual issues and disputes, with a practical and solutions-focused approach.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, particularly in maintaining accurate contract records and documentation.
• The ability to work collaboratively, provide guidance to colleagues and champion consistent contract management practices.

Interested? take a look at the role profile for more information.

As well as working with a fantastic team you will also receive:

• Railway Pension Scheme
• Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you/spouse/partner/dependents
• Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)
• 30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
• 10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators