Commercial Assistant

We are seeking a Commercial Assistant to join a busy and dynamic commercial team based in Manchester working for a large Rail client. This role will support the Commercial Manager and wider commercial function with day-to-day commercial administration and project support activities.

The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the commercial process, from weekly labour call-offs and order placement through to authorised amendments, timesheet and rate verification, assessment of supplier payment applications, and maintaining accurate commercial records and audit trails.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Commercial Manager with the weekly labour call-off and ordering process.
• Prepare labour orders and process authorised amendments.
• Review supplier applications for payment, including checking timesheets, agreed rates, and supporting documentation.
• Maintain accurate trackers, records, and audit trails.
• Liaise with suppliers and internal project teams to resolve queries and issues.
• Identify discrepancies and support their timely resolution.
• Provide general commercial and administrative support to the wider commercial team.

Skills and Experience

Essential

• Highly organised, proactive, and self-motivated.
• Strong attention to detail with a high level of accuracy.
• Able to build positive working relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Able to follow established processes and manage workloads with minimal supervision.
• Practical problem-solving skills and the ability to take ownership of tasks.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable

• Working towards, or qualified in, Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• Previous experience in a Commercial Assistant, Commercial Administrator, Commercial Systems, or similar support role.
• Experience within the construction, engineering, infrastructure, or utilities sectors.
• Knowledge of commercial processes, supplier payments, and labour management.
• Previous rail industry experience would be advantageous but is not essential.