Assistant Commercial Manager

 BUSINESS FUNCTION: Programmes

GRADE: ML1/SB2

SALARY: £45,000

LOCATION: York/Manchester 

ROLE TYPE: Hybrid

HOURS: 37 per week

Introduction

Every improvement to a station, depot or piece of infrastructure starts with a solid commercial foundation. As part of our Infrastructure & Property team, you’ll help make sure the numbers behind the projects stack up – clearly, accurately and on time.

You’ll sit at the heart of our investment portfolio, turning detailed project data into meaningful insight. From cost forecasting to final accounts, your work will give senior leaders the confidence to make informed decisions. In short, you’ll help Northern invest wisely, deliver efficiently, and keep the North moving.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll lead the portfolio-level commercial reporting across our programme of infrastructure and property projects. That includes:

• Managing cost forecasting, Anticipated Final Cost, Cost of Work Done, Gross Billing and Current Contract Value reporting
• Collating and verifying project commercial data, turning it into clear dashboards and management reports
• Leading period-end reconciliations in SAP, resolving discrepancies with Project Managers and Finance Business Partners
• Overseeing purchase order and invoice reconciliation, ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Supporting the Business Planning and Investment Authority process with robust cost planning and estimating
• Managing the Infrastructure & Property change control system and change register
• Preparing evidence packs for third-party payments and funding arrangements
• Acting as the key contact for Finance colleagues on commercial reporting requirements
• Supporting the use and development of our Autodesk commercial module and other reporting tools
• Contributing to the development and continuous improvement of our commercial processes and guidance

You’ll also provide support and guidance to colleagues and manage contracted commercial project resource, helping to maintain consistent and compliant delivery across the portfolio.

About you

Construction project commercial experience, strong financial insight and confidence with data – that’s the foundation.

You’ll bring:

• Demonstrable experience in financial and commercial management within construction projects
• Confidence using Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office tools to analyse and present data
• Experience reconciling purchase orders and invoices, with sharp attention to detail
• A degree in a relevant subject
• Clear communication skills and the confidence to work across teams and organisational boundaries
• A proactive mindset and the ability to work on your own initiative

If you also have knowledge of railway and construction contracts such as JCT or NEC, experience with SAP or COUPA, or are working towards chartered status with a relevant professional body, that’s a bonus – but not essential.

Most importantly, you’re someone who can challenge the status quo thoughtfully, spot opportunities to improve processes, and translate strategy into practical action. You’re comfortable digging into the detail, but you never lose sight of the bigger picture.

What’s in it for you?

At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
• Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
• Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern?

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, beginning a journey that would transform travel across the world. We’ve recently celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and, as we reflect on that legacy, our focus is now on the future as Great British Rail takes shape. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.

At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B – we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.

We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.

No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.