Supply Chain Engagement Lead

Closing Date For applications : 20th November 2025

Salary : Up to £80000

What is the purpose of this job?

Rail Delivery Group is looking for an experienced Supply Chain Engagement Lead, preferably with rail industry experience. The successful candidate will be working across several projects and programmes, with an initial assignment on the roll out of the Interactive Station Customer Systems.  

Whilst the focus is on the establishment and management of the relationship and contracts with our supply chain partners, the successful candidate will need to have procurement expertise and knowledge of procurement processes and frameworks including the Procurement Act 23.

What can I expect to do in this job?

This isn’t an exhaustive list; however, you can expect to be involved in the following:

• Provision of supply chain liaison services for the projects and programmes, acting as a focal commercial point between RDG and relevant suppliers.
• Leading the engagement with supply chain partners on contracts, specified by the programme / project managers and maintaining key relationships with supply chain partners to deliver to quality, cost and project objectives.
• Understand the supply chain landscape so that supplier capability and capacity are matched to RDG requirements and then planned and managed to ensure that projects and programmes are delivered as efficiently as possible.
• Agreeing scope of work and delivery plans with suppliers, together with project managers and product owners, as appropriate.
• Leading negotiations for contracts and managing agreements to ensure advantageous terms.
• Liaising with internal RDG teams including Procurement and Legal to review and progress contracts before submitting for approval, supporting and gaining external/internal approvals for contract signature.
• Maintaining and forecasting supplier cost data, supporting the programme manager with budget management.
• Identifying, recording and managing specific supply chain risks or leading on the resolution of issues.
• Developing supply chain strategy and engagement plans, as required.
• Contract management throughout the programme lifetime.

Who will my key contacts be?

• Supply chain partners
• RDG internal central services teams (Procurement, Legal, Finance)
• Programme and Project Team Members
• Managers and Senior Managers
• Train Operating Companies (TOCs) / member organisation representatives.

What experience, skills and knowledge do I need?

We are looking for someone with an experience of working as a supply chain engagement / procurement lead, demonstrating a strong aptitude for the role, relevant experience and the right attitude as well as a balanced combination of technical and soft skills.

Some of the sort of specific skills and knowledge we are looking for include:

• Knowledge of procurement frameworks and processes
• Relationship building and management skills
• Financial and commercial acumen
• Strong communication skills
• Leadership skills
• Understanding of contract terms and conditions
• Contract negotiation experience
• Performance monitoring and management 

If you believe you have the qualities, skills and experience we are seeking, please forward a covering letter, CV and salary expectation to:   [email protected]  A full job description is available on request.

Why Work for RDG?

We offer a highly competitive package, including:

• 75% off rail travel for personal and family use, plus international rail discounts.
• 30 Days annual leave (plus buy/sell options and additional leave for key life events)
• Season ticket loan for commuting costs.
• Enhanced family leave – 30 weeks full pay for maternity, adoption, surrogacy, and shared parental leave.
• Pension scheme – up to 11.58% employer contribution.
• Private medical insurance (AXA PPP) including mental health and specialist care.
• Discounted gym membership and access to wellbeing programmes.

Career Development & Progression

You’ll be part of a team driving innovation at a national scale, with the opportunity to influence long-term ticketing strategy. This role provides real ownership, the chance to work with leading-edge technologies and partners, and visibility at senior levels across the rail industry. You’ll also gain wide exposure to transport and government stakeholders, opening up exciting development and progression opportunities within RDG.

Apply Now & Shape the Future of UK Rail

If you are interested in joining RDG as a Supply Chain Engagement Lead and shaping the future of digital ticketing, we’d love to hear from you!

Click Apply now to start your application and be part of a team that is leading digital innovation in the rail industry.

Please note that we are unable to consider applications from candidates who require visa sponsorship to work in the UK.