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- Tasks: Analyse data and support communication across London's rail network.
- Company: First Rail Consultancy, a leader in public transport consultancy.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, pension contributions, shopping discounts, and flexible working.
- Why this job: Join a high-profile project and make a real impact in the rail industry.
- Qualifications: Strong Excel/PowerPoint skills and a degree or equivalent experience.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with potential for future opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Assistant Consultants: Fixed Term Assignment – 6 months
Who Are We?
First Rail Consultancy provides specialist services across the public transport sector, particularly in the rail industry. We work closely with other FirstGroup plc businesses including operators Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway, Hull Trains, all-electric train operator Lumo, systems developer Mistral Data and advising DfT on the future operation of HS2. We also provide consultancy services for First Bus, London Trams and external clients.
We deliver a wide range of services to meet our clients' needs including business development, branding, data analysis, engineering, project management, editorial work, and training. We also engage in commercial activity for FirstGroup plc to expand our business, both nationally and internationally. This work encompasses everything from contract bids and business planning to developing software services and new rail routes. We have assembled an experienced team with expertise in a range of disciplines. Just as importantly, we take great pride in being friendly, inclusive and supportive.
What is the role?
We are recruiting two Assistant Consultants to work with us on a six-month fixed term project based in London. The project will involve travel around London's rail network, working with a wide range of colleagues across the railway. One role will focus on numerical analysis while the other will focus on communication and engagement. The project is high profile with a firm deadline, which makes the work both challenging and exciting.
Key responsibilities for the roles are:
- Collating and analysing information including large volume data analysis
- Supporting the communication of plans, receiving and recording feedback
- Planning and coordinating events across the London railway network to share information
- Preparing reports and presentations
- Arranging meetings and note taking
Who are we looking for?
The successful applicant for the role will:
- Either be interested in analysis and enjoy working with data; or be interested in communication and enjoy developing ways of informing and engaging people
- Be able to define opportunities and problems, collect data and make valid recommendations
- Enjoy working with a wide range of stakeholders, with the ability to build productive relationships
- Have strong attention to detail
- Be commercially savvy, able to challenge your own and others' thinking
- Be able to operate independently, determine priorities and drive forward assigned work in an enterprising way
- Be able to travel around the London rail network to attend meetings and workshops during the working day
Skills and Experience
- Strong Excel and/or PowerPoint skills
- Good organisational skills
- Strong empathy and ability to get on with a wide range of people
- Experience working in a team to achieve a planned result to a deadline
- Degree qualified or equivalent professional experience
What can we offer you?
A six month fixed term contract that includes the following benefits:
- Minimum of 10% contribution to your Pension (5% employer and 5% employee)
- 25 days holiday (pro rata) plus national bank holidays
- Payroll Giving – donate directly from your pay to a charity of your choice
- Shopping discounts including discounts and cashback on electrical goods, your weekly shop, holidays, cinema trips, car insurance, upgrading your mobile and lots more
- Employee Assistance Helpline – free, confidential employee support service provided by an independent provider
- Flexible working – a mix of remote working/in-office with an average of 3 in-office days per week. Note: remote working is restricted to within the UK.
While this role is a six month fixed term contract, it is possible other positions may become available as the responsibilities for this role are successfully completed.
FirstGroup plc welcomes applications from a diverse range of candidates regardless of background, gender, race, religious beliefs, disability, sexual orientation or age. We aspire to be a diverse and inclusive organisation because we believe that diversity brings benefits for our customers, communities and our people. Valuing our differences and drawing on our collective knowledge and experience helps us develop new services, open up new markets and broaden our customer base.
Junior Consultant employer: First Group
Contact Detail:
First Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Consultant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the rail industry, especially those connected to First Rail Consultancy. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Junior Consultant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your data analysis and communication skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully engaged with stakeholders or tackled complex data sets. We want to see how you think!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm for the rail industry! Research current trends and challenges in public transport, especially in London. This will not only impress your interviewers but also help you connect your skills to their needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our friendly and inclusive team at First Rail Consultancy.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Consultant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Junior Consultant role. Highlight your relevant skills, especially in data analysis or communication, depending on which focus you’re applying for. We want to see how you fit into our friendly and supportive team!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your strong Excel and PowerPoint skills! If you've got experience with data analysis or engaging stakeholders, make it pop in your application. We love seeing how you can bring your unique talents to the table.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and experiences. We appreciate a well-organised application that reflects your attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at First Rail Consultancy!
How to prepare for a job interview at First Group
✨Know Your Numbers
Since one of the roles focuses on numerical analysis, brush up on your Excel skills and be ready to discuss how you've used data in past projects. Prepare examples that showcase your analytical abilities and how you’ve turned data into actionable insights.
✨Communication is Key
For the communication-focused role, think about how you can effectively convey complex information. Practice explaining your ideas clearly and concisely, and be prepared to discuss any experience you have in engaging with stakeholders or presenting information.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role involves working with a wide range of colleagues, so highlight your teamwork skills. Be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others to achieve a common goal, especially under tight deadlines.
✨Be Ready to Adapt
With the project being high profile and challenging, demonstrate your ability to operate independently and manage priorities. Think of situations where you've had to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and how you handled them successfully.
