Lead Portfolio Manager (Major OLE & ETCS Projects)

Location: Swindon | Rate: £440/day (Umbrella) | Contract: 6 Months (Inside IR35) | Clearance: BPSS & PTS Required

Drive a Critical Railway Modernisation Programme

Are you a seasoned Portfolio Manager with expertise in Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) and signalling systems? We are seeking a dynamic Lead Portfolio Manager to oversee a portfolio of essential works on one of the UK's busiest and most high-profile rail corridors

This is a high-impact, 6-month contract where you will be instrumental in delivering two key workstreams: a major Headspan Conversion programme and the cutting-edge ETCS (European Train Control System) rollout, managing contracts with key partners

Your Role:

You will be the single point of accountability, leading the development, procurement, and assurance for these critical projects. Your focus will be on delivering to cost, time, and quality, while rigorously upholding Safety, Legislation, Company Standards, and the PACE framework.

What We're Looking For (The Essentials):

• Proven experience as a Portfolio Manager, Senior Project Manager, or Contract Manager within the UK rail sector.
• Strong, hands-on experience with NEC contract management, ideally across multiple contracts simultaneously.
• Background in OLE (Overhead Line Equipment) and/or Signalling/ETCS projects is highly desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of NR/L2/INI/02009 (The Hazard Management Process) and other key standards.
• Excellent stakeholder and contractor management and engagement skills.
• Must hold or be eligible to acquire PTS (Personal Track Safety).

This portfolio consists of two distinct but vital modernisation programmes

Key Responsibilities:

• End-to-end management of multiple NEC Contracts (across both workstreams).
• Seamless integration of works between all parties, including major contractors and internal teams.
• Ownership and development of AMP & Health & Safety files.
• Deploying and ensuring adherence to Health and Safety Management system.
• Application of key rail regulations

Ready to Lead this Critical Rail Upgrade?

If you are a strategic leader with the expertise to manage complex, multi-contractor rail projects with the required rail sector expertise, we want to hear from you.

Please apply now by submitting your CV online or call Linda Davison on <phone number removed>

The partnering concept promoted by Vital means that we work together with candidates and clients to achieve your career and recruitment objectives. Our commitment to both candidates and clients is equalled only by our professionalism and dedication to providing the best possible service.