At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting projects to enhance rail services across the UK.
- Company: Join CrossCountry, a pioneering rail operator transforming travel since 2007.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, diverse work culture, and opportunities for growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact on rail travel.
- Qualifications: Degree level education or equivalent experience; project management skills required.
- Other info: Remote work options available; applications close on 12th June 2025.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 68000 £ per year.
This is the most exciting time to be joining CrossCountry since the inception of the original franchise in 2007. CrossCountry has recently secured an up to 8-year National Rail Contract (NRC) that will transform the service we provide to our customers across the three nations of the United Kingdom that we are proud to serve in a unique way.
We will create more journey opportunities, more capacity and more connectivity cementing our vision to be a long-distance intercity operator. We will refresh our fleets, increase the size of that fleet and revolutionise our approach to serving our customers.
A fantastic opportunity has arisen within the Programme Directorate - We are recruiting for a Project Manager on a 12-Month FTC. This role is in recognition of the scale and criticality of project commitments within the National Rail Contract (NRC) and Annual Business Plan (ABP).
Principal Responsibilities / Accountabilities- Supporting senior managers with the achievement of project objectives ensuring alignment with DfT contractual obligations and annual business plan initiatives.
- Oversee the management of project activities ensuring a successful outcome in line with the project mandate and deliverables and that they are completed to the defined contracted scope within the based-lined cost and schedule.
- Planning, tracking and reporting on the performance of projects adhering to the CrossCountry PMO governance requirements.
- Maintaining frequent and detailed communication with all project team members and wider stakeholders to ensure clarity and collaboration at all times.
- Establishing and maintaining up to date project plans.
- Managing project risks, issues, and dependencies by identifying and implementing effective mitigations.
- Affectively deploy the project change control process and updating the business case to provide continued business justification.
- Establishing stakeholder mapping and communications plans and supporting Union discussions.
- Carrying out project lessons learnt to maximise learning during and after the execution; supporting the implementation of any corrective actions to ensure continuous improvement.
- Maintaining action lists and ensuring they are allocated appropriately and are closed out to time.
- Be seen as part of the project management and continuous improvement centre of excellence within the business; providing mentoring and support and sharing best practice to other less experienced Project Managers as required.
- Education to the degree level or demonstration of equivalent capability.
- Proven leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills; Strong evidence of building exceptional working relationships internally and externally.
- Demonstrable experience in managing and delivering strategic projects in line with industry best practice using standard project lifecycle governance and tools.
- Knowledge and understanding of railway operations and the railway industry structure would be desirable but not essential.
- Proven ability to make rational, realistic, and sound decisions based upon analysis of the full facts and consideration of different options and outcomes.
- Experience of influencing and leading across a matrix organisation structure.
- PRINCE 2 and/or APM certification.
- Fully conversant and proficient with all Microsoft Office suite of programs including MS Project.
- Able to adopt the health and safety responsibilities assumed by the role.
The team is based at Cannon House, Birmingham and the role will involve work across the CrossCountry network. Salary: Up to £61K. Closing date for applications is 12th June 2025.
We acknowledge the importance of our people's diverse experiences, talents and cultures. Embracing diversity and creating inclusion is a key component of our talent strategy. The creation of a diverse, inclusive workforce is central to our ability to unlock potential and enhance our success.
Project Manager - London employer: CrossCountry trains
Contact Detail:
CrossCountry trains Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager - London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Rail Contract (NRC) and the Annual Business Plan (ABP). Understanding these frameworks will help you demonstrate your knowledge of the company's strategic goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees in project management roles within the railway industry. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed projects in the past. Highlight your experience with stakeholder communication and risk management, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current trends and challenges in the railway industry. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will show your commitment and passion for the field during your discussions with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager - London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in project management, particularly in strategic projects. Emphasise your leadership skills and any experience you have with railway operations or similar industries.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the responsibilities and qualifications mentioned in the job description. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate how you meet their requirements, especially in managing project risks and stakeholder communication.
Showcase Relevant Certifications: If you have PRINCE2 or APM certification, make sure to mention it prominently in your application. This will show that you have the formal training necessary for the role and understand industry best practices.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since the role requires strong communication and interpersonal skills, provide examples of how you've successfully built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. This could include managing teams, liaising with clients, or collaborating across departments.
How to prepare for a job interview at CrossCountry trains
✨Understand the Project Management Framework
Familiarise yourself with project management methodologies, especially PRINCE2 and APM. Be prepared to discuss how you have applied these frameworks in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your capability to manage projects effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Project Manager, communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've maintained clear communication with stakeholders and team members in past projects. Highlight any experience you have in managing stakeholder expectations and facilitating discussions.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced in project management and how you overcame them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, showcasing your analytical skills and decision-making process.
✨Research CrossCountry and the Rail Industry
Gain a solid understanding of CrossCountry's operations and the current landscape of the railway industry. This knowledge will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role and the company.