Operations Interface Manager in Preston

Ready to shape the future of rail operations? At Avanti West Coast, we are driving innovation and modernisation across the rail network and we are looking for an Operations Interface Manager to help us lead the way. This is your opportunity to influence industry standards, champion safety, and deliver operational excellence during major infrastructure changes.

In this role you will:

• Act as the key link between Avanti West Coast, Network Rail, and industry partners on infrastructure standards and operational readiness.
• Drive business change by translating complex infrastructure updates into practical operational solutions.
• Represent Avanti at signal sighting committees and industry forums, ensuring safety and compliance with RSSB and ORR standards.
• Design and implement cutting-edge driver training strategies for network changes, leveraging technology for maximum impact.
• Provide expert input into signalling and layout design from concept to delivery, ensuring optimal performance and safety.

What we are looking for:

• Railway Expertise & Compliance Knowledge: Previous train driving experience, a valid UK Train Driving License, and strong understanding of signal sighting processes, RSSB standards, and ORR regulations.
• Industry Awareness: Broad knowledge of the UK rail industry structure, including Train Operators, Network Rail, and the Department for Transport.
• Safety Qualifications: IOSH, NEBOSH, or equivalent certification.
• Influencing & Communication Skills: Ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively, and to engage, influence, and constructively challenge stakeholders.
• Leadership & Integrity: Honest, open, and accountable, with the ability to provide counsel on decision-making and tactical challenges.

This job can be based in either London, Birmingham or Preston. This position is offered on a fixed-term basis, with the possibility of becoming permanent.

Benefits include:

• Final salary pension
• Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you/spouse/partner/dependents
• Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)
• 30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
• 10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators

Ready to make a real impact? If you are passionate about operational excellence and want to play a key role in shaping the future of rail travel, apply today and help us deliver engineering works with confidence and precision.

At Avanti West Coast, we believe our strength comes from the unique perspectives, experiences and backgrounds of our people. We are proud to build a workplace where diversity is embraced, and everyone is supported to thrive. We welcome individuals of all races, religions, ages, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations and abilities. Our goal is to reflect the communities we serve and create an environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

When you join Avanti West Coast, you become part of a close-knit team that encourages authenticity. We want you to bring your whole self to work. No need to change who you are to fit in. Your individuality is what makes us better. We celebrate it, we respect it and we put it to great use.

Passionate: We foster a culture where everyone is driven by our mission and are dedicated to achieving it together.

Committed: We are committed to safety, reliability and delivering the very best for our customers, our colleagues, stakeholders and the industry.

Integrity: We believe in taking responsibility for our reactions and decisions to ensure we do the right thing even when it is difficult to do and hold others accountable for doing the same.

Ambitious: We strive to be the best and are curious to new ways of working within our business and the wider industry.

Authentic: We are genuine, caring and grounded individuals that operate and communicate with openness, trust and clarity.