About DfTO Join Our Team at DFTO DfT Operator Ltd (DFTO), is the public sector owning group behind four key train operators: LNER, Northern, Southeastern, and TransPennine Express. We’re here to make your rail journeys smoother, safer, and more reliable. Since taking on LNER in 2018, we've focused on delivering better train services, enhancing customer experiences, and boosting performance across the network. Today, DFTO helps 270 million passenger journeys happen each year, with a team of nearly 17,000 dedicated colleagues. We now manage 25% of Britain’s railway and are committed to shaping the future of train travel to better serve passengers. We work closely with the DfT but operate independently with our own governance and leadership teams. Our priority is ensuring efficient, dependable rail services for everyone. About the role This role consists of managing all stages of the procurement process from tendering through from the handing over of contracts to contract and supplier management within DfT Operator of Last Resort Holdings Limited (DfTO). The role supports the Head of Sourcing, Resilience and Mobilisation; and works with Train Operators (TOC) Procurement Departments and Supplier Management staff across DfTO and TOCs to support transition into the Public sector and to establish Group Sourcing Mechanisms. This role underpins both DfTO and the Procurement Directorate’s Business Plan. In addition to TOCs, the role maybe required to work with and DfT, RNP, external stakeholders such as Network Rail, Crown Commercial Services, and other Government bodies. Essential Criteria Typically, the key responsibilities in this role will include (but are not limited to): To analyse a wide range of information, data, and market research in order to inform commercial options and decisions and input into the shaping of the business need in line with the procurement strategy. Procure and manage the company’s supply chain contracts establishing requirements for new/re-tendered/renewed contracts from the relevant functions. Assess and constructively challenge specifications to ensure that they are fit for purpose, and where appropriate have drawn from best practice/lessons learnt from previous contracts and/or similar contracts delivered. Manage procurement under a category style approach and challenge suppliers for additional opportunities and initiatives. Prepare and develop procurement documentation including but not limited to, Expressions of Interest, Invitations to Tender, Contracts and the publication of notices in line with current relevant legislation. Ensure specifications are received from functional managers and, where appropriate, challenge to ensure optimal value for money and service delivery. Evaluate tender proposals against the business specification and identify the most economically advantageous tender. Recommend preferred supplier and if appropriate submit and present recommendation to the Executive Board for approval. Support the transition of TOCs into the public sector, this will involve analysing pipelines, existing contracts, and supporting TOC Procurement Departments to prepare for transition as per DfTO Transition Policy, providing access to public sector contracts and acting as a representative were required. Act as a primary procurement contact for the business. Plan and manage resources and workload? Other key responsibilities include but are not limited to those set out below: Strategy Supports the delivery and adherence to commercial policy and strategy and to comply with relevant legislation and regulation and manage compliance risk appropriately. Corporate Leadership Work within the Procurement Directorates Governance and Assurance process and (where appropriate) support DfTO business plan. Change Management Promotes a culture that acknowledges the value of positive change and diversity; creates strategies to involve those who will be affected by planning and preparation and to support them through the change. Governance Ensures corporate governance and compliance is maintained in the use of Procurement processes. Issue Resolution and Business Continuity Takes responsibility for resolving risks and issues; uses insight into individuals, groups, and organisational dynamics to gain agreement; involves and influences everyone necessary to get the job done. Performance Management Support stakeholders in risk management to enable programmes and projects to deliver to time, cost, and quality requirements; systematically organises activities, clarifying tasks and responsibilities and making best use of resources. How to apply Additional Information… [Internal Only] Contact: If you have any questions or reasonable adjustments, please contact HM / Resourcer – dean.palmerdftoperator.co.uk About our people and the recruitment process - We're an inclusive employer of choice and we welcome applications from everyone We encourage our colleagues to work flexibly, as we know traditional working patterns don't always fit. If you want to consider working flexibly, just let us know and we'll do our best to help and invest in your career with us, whilst you have a healthy work life balance.