As part of the Transport UK Group, West Midlands Trains delivers around 1,300 train journeys a day, for more than 60 million passengers a year, across our two brands - West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway.

We are committed to delivering a safe and reliable train service, by investing in our fleet of trains, stations and employees. As part of this investment, we are looking to recruit two Category Managers on a permanent, full-time basis.

One Category Manager will focus on supporting our Fleet operations, while the other will support our Property function. Ideally, you will bring relevant experience in one of these areas, enabling you to make an immediate impact and contribute to our continued success.

What does the role involve?

• Guiding and supporting the business in procurement activities – ensuring business and group policies are followed
• Tendering of indirect purchase requirements for all departments, across the business
• Preparing and negotiating contracts and amendments
• Liaising with the wider team and the Department of Transport (DfT) to obtain approval for key contracts – ensuring compliance with our agreements/contracts
• Providing commercial and contractual advice to the business – including influencing business thinking and approach
• Being the interface between the business and external lawyers - for contractual matters
• Attending contract review meetings
• Supporting other colleagues in the review and development of the procurement policies and procedures

What skills and experience do I need to do the role?

• Previous practical experience in a Category Management role – ideally within a large, complex organisation
• Ideally but not essential be CIPS qualified or actively studying towards it
• Management and negotiation of large contracts
• Exposure in interpreting complex legal documentation
• Great commercial and financial awareness
• Strong stakeholder management and influence skills

What is the salary and benefits?

• Salary is up to £50,000 - depending on the experience you can bring to the role
• Hybrid working - 2-3 days a week office, based in Birmingham
• Free travel on all our trains and those of other train companies within our parent group company - for you, your partner and any dependent children
• Defined Benefit pension – one of the best in the UK
• 75% off all other train company travel tickets
• Retail discounts
• Career development opportunities

Due to the volume of applications we receive, the advert may close earlier than the published closing date. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing out.

As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from all backgrounds and ensure no-one receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, race/ethnicity, religion, belief and sexual orientation.

Applications will be considered from colleagues with 6 months experience, after completion of their probationary period and a full check of absence and disciplinary records.