Inventory Controller​/Secondment

Overview

Network Rail connects passengers and freight customers ensuring safe and efficient transportation. This role is within Supply Chain Operations (SCO) supporting the maintenance and renewal of the railway.

Milton Keynes, GB – at The Quadrant: MK, Milton Keynes (3 days per week in office). Occasional site visits.

SCO – Supply Chain Services.

As a Regional Distribution Centre Inventory Improvement Analyst you’ll improve inventory across the regional distribution centre network, review stock management principles, adjust inventory levels and ensure the right balance of stock is maintained to keep availability high, reduce excess stock and prevent shortages.

• Engage with Inventory Manager, RDC teams, customers and other departments to develop inventory stocking principles.
• Analyse metrics for stockouts, overstocks, demand changes and report business performance.
• Review category and supplier data, lead changes to inventory strategy.
• Provide analysis, guidance and quantified progress reports on business improvement initiatives.
• Maintain relationships with customers and suppliers, support supply contracts to achieve cost‑effective delivery.
• Maintain lean inventory levels while ensuring availability up to KPI thresholds.
• Resolve daily queries from RDC teams, customers and internal departments.
• Review and adjust minimum/maximum stocking levels and locations.
• Implement ordering changes during supply disruptions to minimise delivery impact.

• Analytical, numeric and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Experience with Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, V‑lookups).
• Experience with ERP supply chain systems.
• Knowledge of supply chain operations.
• Strong interpersonal, influencing and organisational skills.
• Accreditation in a subject requiring mathematical or scientific competence or experience in a similar analytical role.

• Knowledge of contract and supplier management.
• Commercial awareness.

Vacancy type: 12‑month secondment / fixed‑term contract with potential to extend or become permanent. Secondments require line manager approval. Discuss the opportunity with your manager before applying.

Hours: 35 hours per week, hybrid working with travel as required. Flexible arrangements can be considered.

Salary: £31,245 per annum.

Closing date: 24 February 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. The role is advertised internally and externally.

Applicants must complete a supporting statement addressing the essential criteria as part of the application. Please add this to your CV in one document. (Guidance: How to Complete Supporting Statement.) If you cannot access the guide, contact

Click "Apply now" to submit your application. For phone or email contact, email

We offer a range of reasonable adjustments. Examples include:

• Extra time for online tasks or interviews.
• Adapting physical features of the workplace.
• Providing sign‑language interpreters and support workers.
• Alternative document formats.

• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a competency‑based interview.
• Candidates will be contacted by phone or email.

All candidates must demonstrate awareness of Network Rail's Safety Vision and, where applicable, undergo Drugs & Alcohol testing.