About Commercial Services 

Commercial Services is where big ideas become real!

At TfGM, our team helps shape the future of transport across Greater Manchester by making sure we buy well, manage suppliers brilliantly and create partnerships that deliver value for people, places and the planet.  

We are a growing multi-disciplinary team covering procurement, contract management, Corporate Finance, capital programmes supplier relationships, social value, governance and assurance. That means no two days are the same. One day you could be supporting a major infrastructure programme, the next helping shape the commercial approach for technology, energy, fleet, the Bee Network or bus franchising.  

Our purpose is simple: to help TfGM make smart, fair and future-focused commercial decisions that deliver better outcomes for Greater Manchester. We work with teams across the organisation from the earliest ideas through to market engagement, tendering, contract award, mobilisation and supplier performance.  

Our work matters because TfGM’s biggest ambitions depend on strong commercial delivery. Most of what we do is delivered through our suppliers. We don’t drive the buses or trams, we don’t build infrastructure, we don’t keep the buses and trams safe and secure.  

We help unlock innovation, manage risk, secure value for money and make sure suppliers deliver what communities need. As Greater Manchester continues to transform how people travel, Commercial Services sits right at the centre of that change. This is a team for people who want to learn fast, solve complex problems, challenge how things are done and see the impact of their work beyond a desk.  

If you want a career with purpose, variety and genuine influence, Commercial Services offers the chance to help build a more connected, sustainable and inclusive transport future. 

Why Join the Team?

Joining Commercial Services means stepping into work that is visible, varied and genuinely meaningful. This is not a back-office function sitting on the edge of delivery. It is a team at the centre of TfGM’s biggest decisions, helping shape how Greater Manchester invests, grows and transforms its transport network.

You will get exposure to major projects and programmes that affect millions of journeys, from the Bee Network and bus franchising to new transport infrastructure, technology, Bus and Tram fleets to Technology.  

The work is fast-moving, practical and high impact, giving you the chance to build commercial skills while seeing the real-world results of what you do.

This is also a place where you can influence and drive change. We want people who are curious, confident, collaborative and ready to challenge how things are done. Whether you are improving supplier performance, shaping a procurement strategy, supporting smarter contracts or helping embed social value, your ideas will make a difference.

As the team continues to grow, so do the opportunities. Commercial Services offers space to learn, specialise, progress and build a career with purpose.

TfGM building outside view

Commercial Roles Available

Vacancies

Procurement

  • Procurement Lead
  • Senior Procurement Manager  

Capital Commercial

  • Commercial Lead  
  • Commercial contract Specialist
  • Senior Commercial Manager
  • Senior Commercial Manager

Helpful TfGM Recruitment Information

TfGM bus reart signage: No contracts. No Services. TGFM Commercial Services

Key Commercial Services Achievements

  1. Helped launch the Bee Network bus franchise contracts 
    Commercial Services helped make one of Greater Manchester’s biggest transport changes happen: bringing buses into the Bee Network through locally managed franchise contracts. This was a huge, high-profile project involving market engagement, competition, evaluation, contract award, mobilisation and operator transition. The team had to balance value for money, passenger experience, supplier readiness, risk, service quality and public accountability — all while supporting live transport services. For anyone looking for commercial work with real purpose, this is a standout example: the decisions made by the team helped shape how millions of people will travel across Greater Manchester for years to come.
     
  2. Turned major transport projects into deliverable reality
    Commercial Services support the delivery of complex transport and infrastructure projects across Greater Manchester. From major rail schemes including Golborne Station, which will be the first new railway station in Greater Manchester for a generation, to sustaining and enhancing the existing Bee Network to keep it operating safely, reliably and efficiently for customers every day. These projects need more than technical design; they need smart commercial thinking to make them affordable, deliverable and properly managed. The team helps shape procurement and supplier strategies, test budgets, manage risk, support business cases and challenge whether plans will work in practice. It is project delivery with real-world impact, helping to create better, more sustainable and accessible transport links for communities across Greater Manchester.
     
  3. Shaped the future of Metrolink through Metrolink Operator and Maintenance Agreement 
    Commercial Services is leading the commercial delivery of the Metrolink Operator and Maintenance Agreement, a major procurement valued at around £1.9bn. This work sits at the heart of one of the UK’s largest Tram networks, so the stakes are high. The team is helping shape how Metrolink is operated, maintained and improved for the future, covering performance, customer experience, asset management, mobilisation, risk and long-term value. It is a brilliant example of modern commercial work: strategic, fast-moving, complex and deeply connected to the everyday journeys people make across Greater Manchester.
     
  4. Delivered a greener energy deal through the Power Purchase Agreement 
    Commercial Services delivered TfGM’s Power Purchase Agreement, a forward-looking deal securing over 40 gigawatt hours a year of renewable electricity for the transport network. In a volatile energy market, this gives TfGM more cost certainty while supporting its carbon reduction ambitions. The team had to work through specialist energy markets, financial modelling, technical requirements, risk allocation, governance approvals and 15-year contractual commitments. This was not a routine procurement; it was innovative, future-focused commercial work that connects finance, sustainability and transport delivery. It shows how commercial careers can directly support a greener, more resilient Greater Manchester.
     
  5. Improved everyday journeys through the Bus Shelters Programme 
    Commercial Services supported the Greater Manchester Bus and Metrolink Shelters programme, a highly visible project that passengers experience every day. The programme combined advertising revenue, public realm improvements, supplier mobilisation, installation logistics, maintenance obligations and delivery in busy live street environments. The team helped shape the procurement and contract approach so TfGM could secure capable suppliers, manage performance and protect value for money. The impact is practical and easy to see: better shelters, a better passenger experience and a stronger Bee Network. It shows how commercial work can create improvements people notice on their daily journeys.

Infographic, see text below

How you can bring the values to life

TfGM’s Values and Behaviours

Why people join and stay

Build a career that moves Greater Manchester

Join TfGM Commercial Services and be part of a team where commercial expertise creates real-world impact. Our work helps shape the future of transport across Greater Manchester — from the Bee Network and bus franchising to major infrastructure, technology, fleet, energy and supplier partnerships.

This is a place for people who want more than a standard commercial role. You’ll work on high-profile, complex and meaningful projects that affect millions of journeys and communities across the city region. You’ll gain exposure to senior decision-making, major suppliers, complex negotiations and the kind of commercial challenges that develop your skills fast.

You’ll be trusted to bring ideas, challenge how things are done and help drive better outcomes — for customers, taxpayers, communities and the environment.

Whether your passion is procurement, contract management, commercial strategy, supplier relationships, finance, social value or governance, you’ll have the opportunity to grow your career while doing work that matters.

As the team expands, so do the opportunities. TfGM Commercial Services offers variety, responsibility, professional development and the chance to build a career with purpose in the UK’s most ambitious transport organisation. 

TfGM’s Benefits

Train announcement sign: Social Value, Supplier Realtionship Management, New Contract Management & Procurement System

Employee Testimonials

Eve Whitham – Senior Cost and Commercial Manager – Capital Commercial 

Why did you join TfGM?

I joined TfGM because I liked the idea of working on projects I’d actually see and use in everyday life. There’s a real buzz in passing somewhere and knowing you’ve played a part in making it happen. The benefits package was a plus too, especially the free commuter travel around Greater Manchester.

What surprised you most about working here?

The variety of projects! I came from a highways background where projects could feel quite similar, so I was surprised by the range of work TfGM is involved in. Since joining, I've worked on everything from Metrolink and bus infrastructure to EV charging and active travel schemes. No two projects are the same, which keeps things interesting.

How has your career developed since joining?

I joined TfGM in 2022 as a Cost Manager, having just completed my degree apprenticeship at another organisation. Coming from a business where much of the cost management function was outsourced, I hadn't had exposure to every aspect of the role. TfGM saw my potential and supported me through a development plan that helped me build my skills and experience. Since then, I've progressed to a Senior Cost and Commercial Manager role and continue to develop through the opportunities, projects and support available across the organisation.

What do you enjoy most about your role and team?

The best part of the role is seeing the impact of the projects we deliver. I’m currently working on a scheme only ten minutes from home, and I love knowing I’ll one day show it to my daughter and say, “I helped build that.”

What really makes TfGM special, though, is the team. It’s one of the friendliest I’ve worked in: approachable, supportive and full of knowledge. We work well together and genuinely get on, whether over coffee, celebrating big life events or simply checking in on each other. There's a real sense of camaraderie that makes coming to work enjoyable.

What advice would you give to prospective applicants?

Don't worry about having in depth experience of every aspect of the role before you apply. TfGM is a great place to learn and develop, and you'll be surrounded by people who are happy to share their knowledge and support your growth. If you're enthusiastic, willing to learn and want to make a positive impact on Greater Manchester, then you'll fit right in. 

Joanne Li – Cost and Commercial Manager – Capital Commercial

Why did you join TfGM?

Having moved to Greater Manchester, I have always been keen to be part of an organisation that plays a key role in developing and improving the region. With my skillsets and hands-on experience in transportation sector, TfGM is the one at the forefront of shaping the local transport network.

What surprised you most about working here?

What surprised me the most was the level of collaboration required to successfully delivery of a renewal project on an operational line. It involves close coordination among various teams across TfGM, tram operator, contractor and other key stakeholders. I realised that everyone has an important role to play, not only in delivering the project safely, on time and within budget, but also minimising disruption to customers during the line closure while improving the overall performance and reliability of the network.

How has your career developed since joining?

Since joining TfGM, my skills have been developed both technically and professionally. I have built a much stronger understanding of cost and commercial management within a complex infrastructure and operational environment. I have learnt that effective decision making is not simply about achieving the lowest cost but about understanding the wider implications and making sure the best long-term value is achieved.

Thanks to the training courses provided by TfGM which covers a wide range of learning and development needs, they not only strengthen by skills and expanded my knowledge, but also help building confidence to communicate effectively and maintain strong connections. The support and opportunities available have enabled me to grow continuously and contribute more effectively in my role.

What do you enjoy most about your role and team?

As a Cost and Commercial Manager, I support project delivery and find it rewarding to know that the output of Metrolink projects bring enhancement to customers and stakeholders experience.

One of the things I enjoy most about working at TfGM is the people. Colleagues are approachable, open to discussion and always willing to support one another. I feel supported especially when I face challenges or work on something new. Also, it is encouraging to know that my contributions to the team and projects are recognised by management. This makes working at TfGM a genuinely positive and enjoyable experience.

What advice would you give to prospective applicants?

My advice would be stay open-minded and not be afraid to ask questions. TfGM is a great place to work in a highly collaborative and supportive culture. You will work with people from many different teams and organisations, providing yourself valuable exposure and learning opportunities.

If you are looking for a people-orientated orgranisation, where you can develop professionally, building meaningful relationships, and make impact on Greater Manchester’s transport network, TfGM is a great place to build your career. 

Paul Welsh – Senior Cost and Commercial Manager – Capital Commercial

Why did you join TfGM?

I initially worked at TfGM via a secondment through a delivery partner where I supported as a Change Control Coordinator, Assistant Quantity Surveyor then a Quantity Surveyor on the Trafford Park line Metrolink extension. This gave me the experience of working within TfGM as part of a multidisciplinary team. Following my secondment, I got the opportunity to become part of the internal team which I accepted. During my time as a consultant, I was made to feel as part of the wider TfGM team, so I was fully aware of the good workplace environment and the types of projects I could get involved in.

What surprised you most about working here?

The people who work at TfGM are what makes it a great place to work. The people within the organisation are always very friendly and approachable. This helps when you are working in a multidisciplinary environment and enables you to build relationships with other parts of the business, you might not ordinarily do.

How has your career developed since joining?

Since joining TfGM directly in 2021, I have been able to progress from a Cost Manager to a Senior Cost & Commercial Manager. In this time, I have been given the opportunity to commercially lead on projects and play a key role as the commercial point of contact within the project team. TfGM has also given me the opportunity to get involved in numerous different projects and at all stages of the process, which is invaluable.

What do you enjoy most about your role and team?

Working at TfGM gives me great pride that the work us as a team are doing is helping better the transport network in and around Greater Manchester. My current programme of works is to electrify the EV bus depots in Greater Manchester. Being able to see EV buses on the road, gives you great pride that the work being carried out is helping progress Greater Manchester into a more sustainable network. Also, as a Quantity Surveyor, being a key team member on the pre and post contract side of projects, you are able to see projects through from conception to completion.

What advice would you give to prospective applicants?

If you want to work on a wide range of infrastructure projects and at all stages of the process in good collaborative environment, I recommend applying for the applicable roles.

Kevin Hatherill – Contract and Commercial Lead – Franchise Commercial Management (Metrolink)

Why did you join TfGM?

I'm interested in transport infrastructure and wanted to work on something that has a direct impact on people's daily lives. The Bee Network is a great brand and it's rewarding knowing that the work we do helps serve the communities where we live and work.

What surprised you most about working here?

The warm culture. TfGM is full of people who care about what they're doing and are willing to help each other. People are supportive, collaborative and genuinely kind.

How has your career developed since joining?

I've had the opportunity to build a new commercial team and shape how we work. The role has also exposed me to a much broader range of operational, financial and strategic challenges than I'd experienced previously, which has accelerated my development. 

What do you enjoy most about your role and team?

I'm enjoying building a new team and developing ways of working that best support the people in it. I also find it satisfying when discussions relate to places, services and communities that I'm familiar with and can personally relate to.

What advice would you give to prospective applicants?

Really think about how you would do the job you’re applying for. What challenges would you face? How would you approach them? How would you develop in the role? That level of preparation will come across strongly in both your application and interview.

Fiona Topping – Senior Commercial Manager – Franchise Commercial Manager (Metrolink)

Why did you join TfGM?

I joined TfGM in 2017 because I wanted to work for an organisation that has a genuine impact on people's daily lives. The opportunity to contribute to the development and improvement of Greater Manchester's transport network, while working on complex commercial and operational challenges, was particularly appealing.

What surprised you most about working here?

What surprised me most was the scale and variety of the work. TfGM is involved in far more than just public transport, and there are opportunities to work across a wide range of projects, stakeholders and disciplines. I was also impressed by the level of collaboration and expertise across the organisation and the opportunities to grow within the organisation.

How has your career developed since joining?

Since joining TfGM, I've had the opportunity to take on increasingly complex responsibilities and broaden my commercial and contract management experience. I've developed my leadership skills, managed major commercial activities and worked on strategic programmes that have significantly enhanced my professional growth and understanding of the transport sector. I have also been lucky enough to achieve CIPS Level 4 and Government Commercial Function Practitioner Level whist working at TfGM.

What do you enjoy most about your role and team?

I enjoy the variety of the role and the opportunity to work with colleagues from different professional backgrounds to solve challenges and deliver positive outcomes. The team is supportive, knowledgeable and committed to making a difference, which creates a collaborative environment where everyone can contribute and develop.

What advice would you give to prospective applicants?

Be curious, open to learning and willing to embrace new challenges. TfGM offers a unique opportunity to work on projects that have a real impact on communities across Greater Manchester. If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy working collaboratively, you'll find plenty of opportunities to develop your career here.

Meet the Manager

Portrait of Paul Dean

Paul Dean

Head of Franchise Commercial Management

Length of Service: 20 Years

What do you do?

I lead TfGM's Franchise Commercial Management team, responsible for ensuring that some of Greater Manchester's most important transport contracts, primarily across tram and bus, deliver the best possible outcomes for customers, taxpayers and the city region.

My team sits in the middle of commercial strategy, finance, procurement, contract management and operational delivery. On any given day we might be negotiating with major transport operators, advising senior leaders on multi-million-pound commercial decisions, managing contractual risk, supporting the mobilisation of new services or helping shape the future direction of public transport across Greater Manchester.  

Why do you enjoy working in the team?

Few roles give you the opportunity to influence services used by millions of people every year. Whether we're supporting the growth of the Bee Network, improving value for money or solving complex commercial challenges, you can see the difference our work makes.

We're a highly supportive team that combines commercial expertise with a genuine commitment to public service. Everyone is encouraged to challenge ideas, take ownership and develop their own professional reputation.

No two days are ever the same, which keeps things interesting.

Why Join Our Team?

Our colleagues gain experience in:

  • Commercial and contract management
  • Strategic negotiations
  • Procurement and supplier management
  • Financial and business case analysis
  • Governance and executive decision-making
  • Stakeholder management
  • Leadership and project delivery

Team members regularly engage with senior leaders, operators, consultants, government stakeholders and industry experts, providing a breadth of experience that's difficult to find elsewhere.

If you're ambitious, curious and willing to learn, the Franchise Commercial Management team offers the chance to work on some of the most exciting and complex commercial challenges in the transport industry today. Whether your passion is commercial strategy, contract management, finance, procurement or stakeholder engagement, you'll have the opportunity to make a visible impact while developing skills that will benefit your entire career.  

Join us and help shape the future of transport in Greater Manchester. 

Portrait of Frank Tudor

Frank Tudor

Commercial Services Director

Length of Service – 10 years

What do you do?

I lead TfGM’s Commercial Services function — a fast-growing team at the centre of some of the biggest changes happening across Greater Manchester. We bring together procurement, commercial management, supplier relationships, corporate finance, governance and assurance to help turn ambitious transport plans into real-world delivery.

Put simply, our job is to make sure TfGM works brilliantly with the market and its suppliers. That means shaping major contracts, getting the best from partnerships, managing risk, unlocking innovation and making sure public money delivers value for customers, communities and taxpayers. TfGM is accountable for public transport across Greater Manchester, but we rely on amazing suppliers to help run the services people use every day — from Metrolink trams and Bee Network buses to 2,500 traffic signals and cycle hire. Commercial Services helps make that happen.

Why do you enjoy working in the team?

What I enjoy most is the pace, variety and impact. One day we might be helping solve a complex supplier challenge, the next shaping the commercial strategy for new trams, technology, energy or infrastructure. The work is visible and meaningful — and it affects millions of journeys across the city region.

I also love the mindset of the team. We are curious, practical and ambitious. I want people who are comfortable asking challenging questions, pushing back against “how things have always been done” and working with others to solve problems that genuinely matter. This is not a place where good ideas sit in a drawer — if you bring energy, confidence and fresh thinking, you can make a real difference here.

Interesting Fact

That you can dial an 0800 number free from your mobile is down to me and some negotiations I led before I joined TfGM!

Why Join Our Team?

If you want a career with purpose, challenge and momentum, Commercial Services is a brilliant place to build it. You will get exposure to senior decision-making, major procurements, complex negotiations, supplier performance and projects that are changing how people move around Greater Manchester.

We are growing, modernising and raising the profile of commercial work across TfGM, so there is real room to learn fast, take ownership, specialise and progress. Whether you are already experienced or looking for the next step in your career, you will be encouraged to bring ideas, try new approaches and develop skills that will stay with you for life.

For me, this is about much more than contracts and procurement. It is about using commercial skills to create better transport, stronger communities and a more connected Greater Manchester. If you want work that stretches you, develops you and lets you see the impact of what you do, this is a team where you can build a career that genuinely moves the city region forward. 

Portrait of Jade Rawlinson

Jade Rawlinson

Head of Procurement

Length of Service – 10 years

What do you do?

As Head of Procurement, I lead the team responsible for securing the partners, operators, services, technology and infrastructure that enable TfGM to deliver for Greater Manchester. We work across the entire organisation, and our team supports many of TfGM’s highest-profile projects, procuring everything from bus and Metrolink services, vehicles and active travel infrastructure to CCTV, security services, traffic technology and customer-facing digital solutions.  

Beyond securing great commercial outcomes, I’m also really passionate about using procurement as a force for good. We work to ensure the procurements we deliver create wider benefits for Greater Manchester through good employment practices, support for local businesses and communities, and initiatives that contribute to our carbon reduction ambitions. This means the work we do not only delivers value for money, but also helps build a greener, fairer and more prosperous city-region for everyone.

Why do you enjoy working in the team?

What I enjoy most about my role is the combination of great people and meaningful, visible impact. I lead a fantastic team of talented procurement professionals who work hard, tackle complex challenges, and are passionate about delivering the best outcomes for Greater Manchester.  

I also love seeing the impact of what we do, and the work we do is visible in a way that few procurement roles can offer. I use the Bee Network every day and can see the difference our work makes first-hand. I can take my daughter to see an interchange that we've helped deliver. I can walk around my city and see the improvements we’ve made and change we’ve supported. There's something incredibly rewarding about knowing that the contracts, suppliers and services we've procured are helping connect people to places, opportunities and each other every single day.

Why Join Our Team?

Procurement at TfGM is fast-paced and challenging, but really rewarding. You'll be trusted with real responsibility from day one, working on complex, high-profile projects that make a tangible difference to people across Greater Manchester. No two days are the same. We work with teams right across the organisation, helping to shape solutions, develop requirements and deliver projects that support some of TfGM's most important priorities.

You'll be joining a talented and highly knowledgeable team that is passionate about delivering great outcomes. We don't just run procurements; we influence how projects are designed, how services are delivered and how procurement can drive better outcomes for the organisation and the region. You'll have opportunities to help shape procurement policy and processes, contribute to social value initiatives and support TfGM's wider ambitions around sustainability, good employment and economic growth.

Most importantly, you'll be able to see the impact of your work. The projects you'll support help connect people to jobs, education, healthcare and opportunities every day, making this a role where the hard work genuinely pays off. 

Portrait of Rachel Court

Rachel Court

Commercial Lead Capital Projects

Length of Service – 17 years

What do you do?

As a Commercial Lead at Transport for Greater Manchester, I lead a team of talented commercial professionals, providing commercial and contract management expertise across major transport investment projects. Working as part of multidisciplinary delivery teams, my team and I help turn ambitious plans into reality by managing commercial risk, securing value for money and supporting the successful delivery of projects, from inception and completion, that benefit communities across Greater Manchester.

Why do you enjoy working in the team?

What I enjoy most is the opportunity to develop people while contributing to projects that have a lasting impact. Whether supporting the growth of commercial professionals, shaping commercial strategy or working alongside colleagues from a range of disciplines to overcome challenges, every day is different.  

Why Join Our Team?

People join our team because they want to make a difference, work on important projects and be part of a supportive environment where they can grow professionally. As part of multidisciplinary delivery teams, our commercial professionals play a key role in delivering major transport investment projects that shape the future of Greater Manchester. The work is varied, challenging and rewarding, offering opportunities to collaborate with a wide range of specialists while contributing to projects that have a lasting impact on communities across the region.

We are also proud to have several examples within our existing team of colleagues who have advanced into more senior positions through the support, mentoring and opportunities provided. Whether someone is starting their commercial career or looking to take the next step into leadership, they will find a great culture and support network, combined with the opportunity to work on meaningful projects and alongside talented colleagues. TfGM offers a fantastic place to build a long term and rewarding career and having been part of the organisation for several years myself, I can vouch for the fact that it is a great place to work.  

Interesting Fact

I started life at TfGM in 2009 part of a Delivery Partner arrangement in the delivery of several Metrolink extensions, going from Assistant Quantity Surveyor through to my current role as Commercial Lead, but before this, I was a researcher and production assistant in the reality TV industry. 

Portrait of Jon Mayor

Jon Mayor

Head of Capital Commercial

Length of Service – 10 ½ years

Overview of Role

To lead the provision and assurance of all Capital Commercial activities undertaken by TfGM. I am also a member of the Leadership Group within the Commercial Directorate  

Why They Enjoy Working in the Team

There are loads of reasons why i enjoy working with the team but the thing i am most proud of is how they help and support one another both professionally and genuinely care for one another’s well-being.  

Development Opportunities Available

Given the scale of programmes that we have in TfGM my role has changed significantly from providing Commercial assurance to trying to work out how TfGM can deliver a £2.5bn programme of construction and civil engineering works over the next 5 Years.

Interesting Fact

Before my Quantity Surveying career I played semi Professional basketball including playing for England u23’s and winning several National Titles

Where to find us