Rail operations analyst
- Purchase Order Management:
Within SAP, create, manage, and track all purchase orders related to rail transport. Verify accuracy against contracts and agreed rates, ensure timely approval, and maintain a clear audit trail. - Cost Management:
Monitor and validate all rail-related costs against purchase orders and invoices. Identify discrepancies, resolve promptly, and provide cost analysis reports to management. Support budgeting and forecasting for rail transport expenses. - Data Analysis & KPI Reporting:
Collect and analyse operational data to measure performance against set KPIs (e.g., PO accuracy, cost per tonne, on-time delivery, wagon availability and utilisation). Produce monthly dashboards and reports, highlighting trends and recommending improvements. - Rail Efficiency Analysis:
Analyse rail utilisation, turnaround times, and empty run ratios. Recommend strategies to optimise scheduling and reduce costs. - On-Site Weighbridge
Undertake weighbridge operations when required, ensuring accurate recording of inbound and outbound loads. Verify weight data against system records and maintain compliance with safety standards. - Stakeholder Communication:
Act as the point of contact with rail providers and internal finance/operations teams. Communicate schedule changes and operational updates promptly. - Continuous Improvement:
Support initiatives to streamline PO processes, improve cost control, and enhance rail efficiency.
Job Requirements
- Strong organisational and analytical skills with attention to detail.
- Experience in logistics or transport administration (rail experience preferred).
- Proficiency in MS Office and SAP systems.
- Knowledge of purchase order processes and cost control.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
Education/Qualification
- Professional accounting qualification - AAT (Desired)
- Financial and accounting ability - Studying for an accounting qualification is not a requirement but would be supported.
- Working knowledge of SAP
Why Join us?
At Heidelberg Materials, we don't just offer jobs-we build careers. As a global leader in construction materials, we're committed to innovation, sustainability, and, above all, our people.
Rewards & Benefits
We're proud to be recognised as an Employer of Choice, with accreditations including:
- Armed Forces Covenant (Gold) | Disability Confident | 5% Club (Platinum) | Mates in Mind | Clear Assured | STEM Ambassador | MPQC Member
- Competitive Package: Salary, bonus incentives, generous pension, and life assurance
- Work-Life Balance: 27 days holiday (plus bank holidays), agile/flexible working, holiday purchase, and sabbatical options, Season and travel ticket loans
- Family-Friendly Policies: Enhanced support for maternity, paternity, adoption, IVF, neonatal care, and menopause
- Inclusive Culture: Paid volunteering day and active employee communities (LGBTQ+, Women in STEM, Armed Forces, and more)
- Wellbeing & Development: Employee Assistance Programme, retail discounts, and continuous learning opportunities