Head of Public Transport (Full Time)

Head of Public Transport (Full Time)

Full-Time 71425 - 80216 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Environmentjournal

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead public transport strategy and improve services across York and North Yorkshire.
  • Company: York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, a key player in regional transport.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, impactful role, and the chance to shape public transport.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on sustainable and customer-focused transport solutions.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in public transport and influence regional change.
  • Qualifications: Senior-level experience in transport, strong leadership, and stakeholder engagement skills.

The predicted salary is between 71425 - 80216 £ per year.

As Head of Public Transport, you will lead one of the most high-profile and strategically important areas within our portfolio. With bus and rail reform, service improvement and the transfer of additional transport responsibilities on the horizon, this role will be central to improving public transport provision across the region. I am looking for a credible and influential leader who can build strong relationships with operators, stakeholders and elected members while driving forward an ambitious agenda for change.

Reporting to the Director of Transport, you will lead the strategic direction, development and delivery of public transport services across York and North Yorkshire, with a particular focus on bus services and growing influence over rail services as powers continue to evolve. This is a highly visible leadership role where you will work closely with the Mayor, senior leaders, government departments, transport operators and key regional stakeholders to shape and deliver an ambitious public transport agenda.

You will lead the development of long-term public transport strategies, oversee investment priorities, and ensure that services are accessible, sustainable, customer-focused and deliver value for money for residents and visitors alike.

About You

We are looking for a strategic and influential transport leader with experience operating in complex, stakeholder-rich environments. You will bring:

  • Significant experience working at a senior level within the transport sector.
  • Expertise in bus service delivery, public transport operations, policy and investment.
  • Knowledge of bus franchising, Enhanced Partnerships, concessionary travel and public transport legislation.
  • Experience managing major budgets, contracts, business cases and complex programmes.
  • A strong track record of partnership working, stakeholder engagement and influencing at senior levels.
  • The ability to provide credible advice to elected members, senior leaders and government stakeholders.
  • Outstanding leadership skills, with experience building and developing high-performing teams.

Whether your background is within a Combined Authority, local government, transport operator, consultancy or wider public transport environment, you will have the credibility, vision and ambition to drive meaningful change.

For more details, please see the Job Description / Person Specification.

Key Dates

Closing: Thursday 27 August 2026 (midnight)

Company: York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority

Salary: £71,425 - £80,216 per annum

Location: York, North Yorkshire

Head of Public Transport (Full Time) employer: Environmentjournal

Ashfield offers a vibrant and supportive work environment for Graduate Environmental Health Officers, where you can thrive in a community-focused setting. With access to comprehensive development programmes and mentorship from experienced professionals, you'll have ample opportunities for personal and career growth while contributing to the well-being of the public and the environment. The picturesque location of Sutton-In-Ashfield, combined with excellent transport links and a commitment to teamwork, makes this an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.

Environmentjournal

Contact Details:

Environmentjournal Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Public Transport (Full Time)

Dive into Local Government Events

Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Environmentjournal, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!

Join Relevant Networks

Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.

Utilise Your University’s Resources

If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Environmentjournal and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.

Stay Updated with Government Initiatives

Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Public Transport (Full Time)

Leadership Skills
Stakeholder Engagement
Public Transport Operations
Bus Service Delivery
Policy Development
Budget Management
Contract Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.

Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.

Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Environmentjournal and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.

How to prepare for a job interview at Environmentjournal

Get to Know Public Sector Values

Before your interview with Environmentjournal, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.

Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge

Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.

Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration

The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!

Prepare Real-Life Examples

Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Environmentjournal.