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- Tasks: Lead network planning and optimise bus routes for efficiency and customer satisfaction.
- Company: Join First Bus, a leader in public transport with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health perks, discounted travel, and 25 days holiday.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public transport while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in network planning or transport operations, strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a commitment to mental and physical wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 36800 - 42000 £ per year.
Position Title: Network Planning Manager
Reports to: Head of Network
Location: South Yorkshire or Midlands- Leeds or Sheffield
Network in First Bus
The First Bus Network CoE is responsible for bus service performance and producing the day-to-day operating plan for our fleet across the UK. Data and route performance analysis is key in managing our service profitability and reliability. Our core services include designing bus routes and timetables, creating vehicle and driver duties to ensure operational efficiency and complying with regulatory requirements. Using advanced planning systems, the team also prepare contract and tender bids for First, all with the goal of supporting reliable and customer-focused delivery.
Position Summary
The Network Planning Manager leads the local delivery of network planning and development, managing Network Planners and providing critical insight, data, and modelling to support long-term strategy, service changes, and franchising readiness. Reporting to the Head of Network, the role holder will collaborate cross-functionally and engages with local stakeholders—including LTAs, depots, and community groups, ensuring network plans are operationally viable, customer-focused, and aligned with business performance, budget, and growth objectives.
The Network Planning Manager will act with integrity and role model First Bus values and behaviours (‘our Way\’) across their business units and the broader business; and through effective stakeholder management, they will ensure the needs of local authorities, investors, customers, partners, and colleagues are met.
Key Responsibilities
Key Relationships
Skills & Experience required:
Key Performance Indicators
Behaviours (“our Way”)
Company, Health, Safety and Environmental Responsibilities
Rewards & Benefits
We put a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing at First Bus. We recognise that anyone can be affected by the stresses and strain of work, or life outside it. You\’ll find a range of health-promotion initiatives, and you will have 24/7 access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
Planning Manager employer: First Bus
Contact Detail:
First Bus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Planning Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their approach to network planning and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to show them you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or family. Focus on articulating your experience in network planning and how you can contribute to their operational efficiency. Confidence is key, so let’s nail those answers!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let’s get you that Planning Manager position!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Planning Manager role. Highlight your experience in network planning and any relevant leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of regulatory compliance and stakeholder management.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: If you've got experience with planning software like Prospective or Optibus, shout about it! We love candidates who can demonstrate their technical proficiency, so make sure to include any relevant tools you've used in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at First Bus
✨Know Your Data
As a Planning Manager, you'll be dealing with a lot of data and performance analysis. Make sure you brush up on relevant metrics and how they impact service profitability and reliability. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've used data in past roles to optimise routes or improve operational efficiency.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves leading a team of Network Planners, so it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Prepare to share examples of how you've successfully managed teams, tackled challenges, and fostered collaboration across departments. Highlight any specific achievements that showcase your ability to lead effectively.
✨Understand Regulatory Requirements
Familiarise yourself with the regulatory landscape surrounding bus operations, including service registrations and compliance processes. During the interview, be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles and how you would approach this aspect in the new position.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Stakeholder relationship management is key in this role. Think about how you've engaged with local authorities, community groups, or other stakeholders in the past. Be ready to discuss your communication strategies and how you’ve built trust and responsiveness in those relationships.
