Primary Purpose of Job
The Intercity Express Programme Contract Manager role is the key point of contact between the Department and the private train supply contractor Agility Trains. The role encompasses close collaborative working across the whole of the DfT, DFTO, relevant Train Operating Companies, wider stakeholders, advisors and external partners, and is responsible for ensuring delivery of contractual obligations and managing the day‑to‑day mechanisms and processes of the Intercity Express Programme (IEP) contracts. The role is varied and fast‑paced, and you will be responsible for ensuring delivery of benefits to passengers by working with train suppliers, operators and project teams, supporting the management of day‑to‑day issues as they arise and securing delivery of contracted obligations. You will monitor train availability and performance, manage contract changes, draft reports or ministerial briefings and correspondence, lead on administration and wider information management, and also lead on the management of advisory and other supporting contracts, including procurement and re‑procurement, ongoing management of deliverables and performance monitoring.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the day‑to‑day contractual relationship between the internal experts, train operators and suppliers, ensuring that the delivery of obligations and responsibilities is monitored through to completion and that appropriate auditability is in place.
- Develop a collaborative working relationship with the operator and train suppliers to ensure that the interests of passengers and taxpayers are protected.
- Build up an expert knowledge of the IEP contracts and contracting framework and use this knowledge to effectively manage the contracts on a day‑to‑day basis. Proactively address day‑to‑day commercial issues as they arise and provide advice to senior colleagues on emerging risks to the delivery of franchise obligations.
- Work in partnership with colleagues to manage contractual changes, ensuring proper and accurate records of these are maintained. Lead and support contractual negotiations, variations and enforcement procedures as required.
- Lead on specific work streams on contract management excellence as they relate to the IEP.
- Organise contractual meetings with delivery and supply advisory partners and produce or review accurate minutes. Using the outputs of these meetings, prepare emerging results and monthly reports providing accurate evidence and information.
- Lead the procurement, and management of contracts relating to technical, legal, financial and other support.
- Manage the IEP budget and financial management.
- Undertake duties and responsibilities as the Local Information Manager.
- Support briefings and correspondence from external stakeholders and the public.
Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Technical Qualifications
- Excellent planning, administrative and organisation skills.
- Effective communication skills, both orally and in writing, and ability to collaborate with team members and stakeholders at all levels.
- A proactive approach to delivering results and ability to take own initiative.
- Ability to work under pressure supporting large projects and adapt to ever‑changing demands.
- Demonstrated excellent communication skills.
- Effectively built positive relationships with key partners.
- Demonstrated excellent planning and organisation skills.
Vacancy Details
Duration: Permanent or Secondment
Location: Leeds
Salary: up to £42,596
Closing date: 6th May 2026
DFTO Benefits
Annual Leave: Starting at 25 days and rising to an additional day per year of service completed within the first 5 completed years up to a maximum of 5 additional (30 days)
DC Pension Scheme: 10% Employer contribution, 5% Employee contribution
Opportunities to learn and network across the wider industry
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