Business Support Specialist

Brief Description:

This role sits within Supply Chain Operations (SCO), an area of the business which supplies and delivers the logistics, materials, components, rail and road fleet that enable the maintenance and renewal of the railway.

SCO keeps the materials, machinery and components required by its customers moving – making sure they are on-site when needed so work can go ahead as planned and on schedule. Watch our video Working in Supply Chain Operations.

 

Key accountabilities include:

1. Manage supply contracts to achieve the most cost effective delivery of goods and services.

2. Engage with and support internal and external stakeholders to understand future business strategies and support delivery of an up-to-date supply and demand plan.

3. Manage effective relationships with customers and suppliers and deliver day-to-day supplier relationship management for nominated specialist areas.

4. Provide management information to the business, as required.

5. Review, monitor and authorise supplier invoices and application for payment in accordance with company policy, standards and supporting information systems.

6. Assist in the design, introduction and operation of relevant process management systems.

7. Hold regular contract management meetings with key stakeholders, suppliers and customers to identify tangible improvements in value and service levels.

8. Manage the collection, review, analysis and support of category and supplier data for particular categories, to support the development of innovative category strategies. Advise the supply chain on alternative suppliers.

9. Identify and implement quality and efficiency improvement initiatives.

 

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following essential criteria:

Knowledge of the supply chain and the relevant supply contracts.
Experience of contract and supplier management.
Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
Commercial and negotiation skills.
Able to work under pressure.
Good interpersonal, influencing, communication and organisational skills.
A customer focused approach.

 

Vacancy type: This role is permanent.

Location: This position is based in Milton Keynes, with 2 – 3 days per week in the office.

Travel: Regular travel to Network Rail sites will be required as part of this role, including Beeston (Nottinghamshire), Scunthorpe and Eastleigh.

Hours: 35 hours per week with hybrid working and travel as required.

Salary range: £35,582 – £40,830 per annum, depending on skills and experience.

Closing date: 27 February 2025. Late applicants will not be accepted. This role is being advertised internally and externally

Please complete a supporting statement addressing how you meet the essential criteria and add this to your CV in one document.
Below are some examples of adjustments we can make:

Changing a provision, practice or ‘the way things are done’
For example, we can give candidates extra time to complete online, tasks or interviews as needed.
Changing a physical feature of our workplace
For example, office/room layout can be adapted to accommodate individual needs.
Providing extra equipment or assistance
For example, we can provide sign language interpreters and support workers where needed. Alternative document formats can be made available.

There are lots of other adjustments we can consider – please just ask!

 

The recruitment process will consist of shortlisted candidates being invited to take part in the following;

Competency Based Interview
Candidates who are shortlisted for interview will be contacted by phone or email.

 

Drugs and Alcohol Standard:

All prospective external candidates offered a conditional role will be required to undergo and pass a drugs and alcohol test. Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test

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