As part of the Transport UK Group, West Midlands Trains delivers around 1,300 train journeys a day, for more than 60 million passengers a year, across our two brands - West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway. We are committed to delivering a safe and reliable train service, by investing in our fleet of trains, stations and employees. As part of this investment, we are looking to recruit a Head of Client Relationships on a full-time, permanent basis, based in Birmingham, this role will Provide senior leadership and vision to drive West Midlands Trains’ contractual relationship with the Department for Transport (DfT) and other parties, for managing all commercial aspects of the National Rail Contract (NRC) and successor Service Agreement (SA). Leading on the development of strategies and plans to protect West Midlands Trains’ interests and meet the obligations under NRC, delivery of our Business Plan Commitments, and maximising our Performance Based Fee (PBF). You will act as the senior point of contact for Department for Transport (DfT) in relation to current contractual arrangements and enable WMT to be responsive to new future contractual arrangements. And lead a team of commercial professionals and act as subject matter expert to the business for all National Rail Contract commercial matters, providing specialist advice and guidance as required What skills and experience do I need to do the job? Experienced and highly credible leader with people and leadership skills gained in at a senior level within client relationships or similar, with the ability to influence at all levels to deliver results. Sound understanding of the regulatory framework in the Rail Industry, including the mechanics of rail industry commercial and contractual frameworks, rail industry legislative framework and related contracts. Experienced in managing complex major contracts in a rail environment and associated & subsidiary documents. Significant experience in working with stakeholders and relationship management, for large and complex organisations. Able to respond to a wide range of complex and conflicting interests and to communicate effectively with key stakeholders in their resolution. Able to understand and absorb substantial amounts of information quickly and accurately and seek appropriate action to deliver realistic solutions. Sound commercial and financial awareness. Demonstrable experience of managing, developing and motivating teams. What are the salary and benefits? Competitive Salary Defined Benefit pension – one of the best in the UK Free travel on all our trains and those of other train companies within our parent group company - for you, your partner and any dependent children 75% off all other train company travel tickets Retail discounts Career development opportunities Due to the volume of applications we receive the advert may close earlier than the published closing date. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing out. As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from all backgrounds and ensure no-one receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, race/ethnicity, religion, belief and sexual orientation. Applications will be considered from colleagues with 6 months experience, after completion of their probationary period and a full check of absence and disciplinary records.