At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead network design and operational solutions for innovative transport projects.
- Company: Join First Bus, a leading UK bus operator embracing cutting-edge technology.
- Benefits: Health support, discounted travel, flexible working, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of public transport while making a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: Experience in network planning, franchise bids, and strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 61408 - 80000 £ per year.
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.
Location: UK based - flexible location
Contract: Full Time, permanent
At First Bus, we're helping shape the future of public transport. As franchising continues to transform the industry, we're looking for a Network & Operations Lead to play a key role in developing winning franchise proposals and delivering innovative transport solutions for our customers and local authority partners. This is a unique opportunity to combine strategic thinking, operational expertise and network planning knowledge to influence some of the most significant opportunities in the UK bus market.
About the Role
As our Network & Operations Lead, you'll take ownership of network design, compliance and operational solution development across franchise bidding activity. Working closely with colleagues across the business, you'll ensure that proposed networks are fully compliant, operationally deliverable and aligned to client requirements. You'll play a pivotal role in translating complex franchise specifications into robust, evidence-based solutions that can be mobilised successfully and sustained in operation. You'll also lead the development of operational delivery and customer plans, ensuring our bids are not only competitive but ready for implementation from day one.
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading the development of compliant, customer-focused and operationally credible network proposals across franchise bids
- Ensuring network solutions meet tender specifications, contractual requirements and local authority expectations
- Developing integrated operational delivery and customer plans that support successful service delivery
- Providing assurance, governance and oversight of network assumptions, data and modelling
- Working collaboratively across multiple functions to develop end-to-end bid solutions
- Identifying and mitigating risks while presenting clear recommendations to stakeholders
- Supporting the creation of mobilisation-ready solutions that can transition seamlessly into operation
- Driving continuous improvement, innovation and the use of digital tools and AI to enhance bid development
- Leading, coaching and developing team capability while fostering a culture of collaboration and delivery excellence
What We're Looking For
We're looking for a highly analytical and commercially minded leader with experience in network planning, franchise bidding or transport operations.
You’ll Bring
- Significant experience in network planning, franchise bids or operational transport environments
- A strong understanding of franchise specifications, compliance requirements and public procurement processes
- Experience developing data-led, operationally deliverable solutions
- Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills
- Strong analytical, modelling and problem-solving capabilities
- The ability to work at pace within a complex and evolving environment
- Proven experience leading cross-functional teams and delivering successful outcomes
It Would Be Great If You Also Have
- Experience within bus franchising or public service contracts
- Knowledge of scheduling, resource modelling and operational planning
- Understanding of governance, risk management and contract requirements
Rewards
Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advice. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support. We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc. Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass. Cycle to work scheme. 25 days holiday + bank holidays. Pension scheme and chance 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 be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities, and people. We welcome applications from all.
Network and Operations Lead employer: First Group
First Group in Doncaster is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development through fully paid training for aspiring bus drivers. With benefits like free bus travel for family and discounted rail travel, employees enjoy a rewarding work-life balance while contributing to the local community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Network and Operations Lead
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like First Group.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by First Group. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Network and Operations Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at First Group, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at First Group and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into First Group. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at First Group
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at First Group.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to First Group.
