At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Bus Business Development team and implement commercial strategies for London's bus network.
- Company: Join TfL, a dynamic and influential organisation shaping public transport in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, free travel, generous leave, and a hybrid working model.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equality and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on London's transport while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing complex projects and stakeholder relationships is essential.
The predicted salary is between 89000 - 89000 £ per year.
London Buses carry the lion’s share of passengers across the capital, offering one of the most affordable and accessible means of travel for over five million journeys a day, across more than 650 routes. Our bus network is well connected, and served by around 9,000 vehicles, with our bus contracts worth over 2 billion a year. We are delivering a complex programme of improvements across the network as set out in our Bus Action Plan and TfL Business Plan.
This role will have a direct and wider role as a people leader and will report directly to the Head of Bus Business Development. The postholder will also be a member of the Buses Senior Management Team and will regularly engage with senior leaders across the organisation, including senior managers and Directors.
Key Accountabilities
- Developing and leading implementation of commercial strategies and tendering and contracting policy, to ensure that the London Bus network continues to deliver value for money.
- Delivery and oversight of relevant and Mayoral manifesto commitments and TfL Business Outcomes, including pledges in the Bus Action Plan and TfL Business Plan, while managing the varying demands and needs of key stakeholders.
- Work collaboratively with multiple internal teams across Operations, Delivery and Sponsorship Directorates, TfL’s Commercial and Procurement teams and externally with industry.
- Acts as the Client / Senior Responsible Owner for the development of Bus projects and programmes, agreeing effective governance and ensuring realisation of proposed benefits.
- Development of key procurement documents and bus contracts to ensure competitively procured contracts through a thorough and robust process.
- Leading Business Planning activity for the team, helping to set realistic and robust budgets and forecasts.
- Maximising income across Buses and TfL by working with stakeholders to obtain best value for money.
- Developing a competitive market for bus services in London, building strategic relationships with CEOs and MDs of existing and potential operators.
- Develop systems and processes to support and enhance bus service tendering, contracting and payment management activities.
- Representing the Bus Operations directorate and managing relationships with external stakeholders, including the GLA, politicians and public bodies, trade unions, suppliers.
- Leading and directing the work of the Bus Business Development team (around nine people), developing staff capabilities and engagement to meet the needs of the directorate.
Skills, Knowledge & Experience
- Demonstrable ability to influence at all levels - obtaining buy-in from key stakeholders.
- Proven ability to coordinate large-scale portfolios of projects in a matrix environment.
- Strong track record of engaging and motivating people at all levels.
- Proven ability to analyse complex information to produce recommendations for Board level or equivalent.
- Excellent organisational and programme management skills.
- Excellent communication skills, report writing and presentation skills.
- Good understanding of large complex operational transport operations services.
- Educated to degree level, or equivalent.
- Broad knowledge of external commercial developments and emerging best practice in procurement and contract management.
- Significant experience of managing complex stakeholder relationships in a fast-moving political landscape.
Equality, diversity, and inclusion
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and aim to reflect the diverse communities we serve. We believe that a diverse workforce enables us to deliver better services and outcomes.
Application Process
Please apply using your 2-page CV. Think carefully about the skills, knowledge and experience in the advert and cover this in your CV. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 1st September 2026 @ 23:59. Interviews will be held w/c 21st and 28th of September 2026.
Benefits
In return for your commitment and expertise, you will enjoy excellent benefits and scope to grow. Rewards vary according to the level of role but mostly include the below:
- Final salary pension scheme
- Free travel for you on the TfL network
- 30 days annual leave plus public and bank holidays
- Private healthcare discounted scheme (optional)
Senior Bus Contracts and Development Manager in London employer: Greater London Authority
The Greater London Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong commitment to social impact, employees benefit from a comprehensive package that includes flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth. Working in the heart of London, you will be part of a team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the community through participation, inclusion, and sustainability initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Bus Contracts and Development Manager in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Bus Contracts and Development Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at Greater London Authority, 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 Greater London Authority 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 Greater London Authority. 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 Greater London Authority
✨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 Greater London Authority.
✨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 Greater London Authority.
