Network Planning Manager

About First Bus

Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators?

Join a forward‑thinking company that embraces cutting‑edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles.

We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient.

We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.

• Due to an internal promotion, we have a fantastic opportunity for a
• Network Planning Manager (Scotland & York)

, to join our Network team on a full‑time permanent basis. This is a hybrid role and will be based from our Caledonia depot.

Key Responsibilities

• Intelligent
• Network

Design: Design and optimise bus routes and timetables using planning software, ensuring alignment with customer demand, operational constraints, and commercial targets.

• Leading Tactical
• Service
• Change

Activity: Lead the team of Network Planners on tactical service change delivery, contributing to short and medium‑term modifications in response to local authority requests, punctuality issues, or business priorities.

• Strategic
• Network

Development: Support the Head of Network with strategic planning activities, providing local insight and data to inform long‑term network strategies, growth opportunities, and franchising readiness.

• Commercial
• Planning

Alignment: Work closely with the Commercial Director to propose and develop Network plans that aim to deliver against the financial and operational targets of the business.

• Financial Modelling and Forecasting: Lead the local modelling and analysis for forecasting, budgeting, and tender submissions, including B2B and supported service contracts.
• Regulatory Compliance Oversight: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including service registrations, BODS, roadside publicity, and internal governance processes.
• Cross‑Functional

Leadership: Lead on the local elements of cross‑functional delivery, working closely with Scheduling, Commercial, Operations, Engineering, and external stakeholders to align on timelines, checkpoints, and service changes.

• Stakeholder
• Relationship

Management: Actively engage with local stakeholders, including LTAs, community groups, and internal depots, acting as a trusted and responsive partner for the relevant geographic location.

• Electric Vehicle Integration: Oversee the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into the network, ensuring schedules align with charging and operational requirements.
• Operating Rhythm and
• Team

Development: Contribute to a structured operating rhythm, feeding into planning cycles, performance reviews, succession planning, team development and service delivery governance.

Skills / Experience

• Proven experience in network planning or transport operations, ideally in a leadership role.
• Strong commercial acumen and a proven track record in cost/benefit analysis; highly numerate.
• Proficiency in network planning and timetabling tools (e. g. Prospective, Optibus) is highly desired; alternatively, an advanced level of IT literacy is a necessity.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high‑performing teams.
• Geographical knowledge of the areas of operation and responsibility is preferred.
• Ability to work in a high‑pressure environment consistently delivering on objectives within the timeframe.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements for bus operations (e. g. service registration, BODS).
• Understanding of electric vehicle operations and their impact on network planning is an advantage.
• Experience working with or within local authorities or public transport partnerships is desirable.
• Salary and Rewards

Benefits include

• Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you, including cash‑back benefits across optical & dental, virtual GP appointments, mental health support, and nutrition and fitness advice.
• EAP provision offering 24‑hour, 365‑day mental health support.
• Discounts on high‑street brands and supermarkets.
• Discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service, plus a free bus pass.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• 25 days’ holiday + bank holidays.
• Pension scheme and opportunity to buy discounted First Group shares.
• Enhanced maternity / paternity pay.
• Flexible working.
• Equal Opportunities

Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences.

At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are.

We aspire to an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking, and experiences bring many benefits to our customers, communities, and people.

We welcome applications from all.

We are always looking for skilled and talented people to join us across our sixty‑plus depots from Aberdeen to Truro.

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