Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the Programme Office, ensuring strong project controls and operational assurance.
- Company: Network Rail keeps the UK connected, prioritising safety and efficiency for millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, flexible working, discounts on travel, and a supportive healthcare scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative tech-driven environment that values innovation and teamwork.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in project controls are essential; qualifications like MSP or Prince 2 preferred.
- Other info: This is a 12-month fixed-term contract with hybrid working options available.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 46000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Programme Office Manager role at Network Rail
Join to apply for the Programme Office Manager role at Network Rail
Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
About Network Rail
Join Network Rail – Where People and Connections Matter
Location
Milton Keynes, GB
Department Name
IS DDaT Delivery (807599) G1
About Network Rail
Join Network Rail – Where People and Connections Matter
At Network Rail, we\’re dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you\’re not just part of a team – you\’re part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. Click here to learn more.
We\’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we\’ll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
If you\’re ready to make a real difference, we\’d love to hear from you!
We offer excellent benefits, including:
Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
Defined benefit pension scheme.
75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
Up to 75% off leisure travel.
️ Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass.
Flexible/hybrid working arrangements.
️ Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
Healthcare Scheme, GymPass discounts, Cycle to work plus more.
We offer generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave to support our employees duringsignificant life moments
Plus, more….
Brief Description
The railway has seen nearly 200 years of technology and innovation that has transformed how we provide services to passengers and freight customers. Technology is continuing to transform the railway industry. Imagine an exciting environment where Digital, Data, and Technology (DDaT) are not just buzzwords but the driving force behind every operation, every decision, and every solution.
As part of the DDaT directorate, you have a unique opportunity to enable our customers and industry partner with modern and transformative technology. From the day-to-day IT operations that keeps a national railway running, to the extensive delivery programmes that our helping to reshape the railway – we are at the forefront of all of it. We operate with a talented and passionate workforce, fostering empowered individuals and teams who understand that technology is not just a tool – it\’s the catalyst for progress, especially in an ever-demanding industry where change is a constant.
Click ‘apply for this job’ to apply.
For further information of the role please contact mark.powell4@networkrail.co.uk
About The Role (External)
About the role
To manage the operations of the Programme Office, running programme controls, operational assurance, managing MI and demand planning for GBS.
Key Accountabilities
To run and enforce strong project controls for projects within GBS:
- To run an objective, robust health check and governance and assurance process for project estimates, plans, risks, scope, and contract, as part of the Delivery Lifecycle model and investment process.
- To run and enforce an objective, robust change control process for changes to baseline programme and project artefacts. [25%]
To run and enforce strong operational assurance reviews for projects within several Delivery Units:
- To run regular Issue and Risk Reviews and Qualitative Schedule Risk Assessments for programmes and projects, and periodic reviews of programme and project performance data and key deliverables, identifying issues and escalating to the project managers and Lead Programme Office Manager for immediate resolution.
Carry out delivery assurance reviews on behalf of the Lead Programme Office Manager and/or Governance & Assurance Manager, reporting on key findings and recommendations to that individual and to senior management, and proactively following up on compliance to the recommendations. [25%]
Provide subject matter expertise in Earned Value Reporting, Qualitative Schedule Risk Assessment, and GBS delivery methodologies, to the project management community. [20%]
Provide analysis and provision of objective management information for GBS, including the production of the periodic Executive Review Pack, Delivery Portfolio Reports, and supplier performance Reports. [15%]
Manage communications between the Programme Office and GBS, particularly the delivery community. [5%]
Play an active role in driving and delivering a continuous improvement programme across delivery, working with the Lead Programme Office Manager to do so. [5%]
Produce and publish a capacity plan each period. [5%]
Manage demand management processes for the GBS Delivery organisation:
- To source project demand and resource supply data and run standard processes to identify and analyse capacity variance.
Essentials
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills at the senior management level.
- Strong English business writing skills.
- Competent user of Oracle Projects and Microsoft Office Project.
- Competent user of Microsoft Office Excel and Powerpoint.
- Competent understanding of common contract management frameworks.
Experience
- Dem onstrable experience to deliver quality work in a timely and cost effective manner.
- Demonstrable expertise in project controls, including Earned Value Reporting.
- Demonstrable expertise in Qualitative Schedule Risk Assessment.
- Demonstrable expertise in the creation and validation of IT work and cost estimates and plans.
- Demonstrable experience in IT delivery and assurance for programmes and projects from £1m-£5m.
- Experience in managing and/or supporting IT enabled business change programmes.
- Experience in working in a Programme Office function.
- Experience in managing suppliers in an outsourced environment.
Qualifications
- Formal programme/project/project office qualification (e.g. MSP, Prince 2, ISEB Advanced Certificate in PPSO).
How To Apply (External)
You will need to complete a supporting statement addressing how you meet the essential criteria, please complete this as part of the application process and add this to your CV in one document. Applicants who do not complete this statement will not be shortlisted.
Vacancy type: 12 month fix term contract, 35 hours per week, Hybrid working of 3 days in the office.
Location: The Quadrant Milton Keynes
Closing date: 6th August 2025
Interviews from: 18th August 2025, these will be held in person at our Milton Keynes office.
Band & Salary: Band 3B £ 46,701 to £55,411
We are committed to a diverse workplace enriched with representation from diverse cultures, backgrounds and skills. We pride ourselves on creating an environment where difference is embraced, and individuals can thrive. We recognise that the success of the team is dependent on a multi-cultural, multi-disciplined group of individuals, aligned to deliver successful solutions.
At Network Rail, we have a number of employee networks to reflect our diverse population and help to raise issues to the wider workforce and support their membership and support our Everybody Matters strategy, led by our central Diversity & Inclusion team. We have Diversity & Inclusion Champions who take part and lead on many activities, to drive through more initiatives to support an inclusive environment for all its people and promote a professional and positive working environment . For more information on Diversity & Inclusion at Network Rail, please follow this link
Do you consider yourself to have a protected characteristic? If so and you require any additional support with your application, please do not hesitate to contact the Resourcer who will happily assist mark.powell4@networkrail.co.uk
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
-
Job function
Administrative
-
Industries
Rail Transportation
Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Network Rail by 2x
Get notified about new Program Office Manager jobs in Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom.
Hemel Hempstead, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago
Programme Coordinator – Youth for Sustainable Development and Climate Justice
Programme Coordinator – Volunteering for Health (Mental Health, Learning Disabilities & Neurodiversity Partnership)
Hemel Hempstead, England, United Kingdom 6 days ago
Bedford, England, United Kingdom 4 days ago
Bicester, England, United Kingdom 6 days ago
Bedford, England, United Kingdom 20 hours ago
Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago
Bicester, England, United Kingdom 4 weeks ago
Luton, England, United Kingdom 4 days ago
Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom 4 days ago
Senior Project Manager – Hydropower | Expression of Interest
Northampton, England, United Kingdom 3 weeks ago
Daventry, England, United Kingdom 23 hours ago
Raunds, England, United Kingdom 1 week ago
Hemel Hempstead, England, United Kingdom 4 days ago
Hemel Hempstead, England, United Kingdom 2 weeks ago
Hemel Hempstead, England, United Kingdom 1 day ago
We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Programme Office Manager employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Office Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific project management methodologies mentioned in the job description, such as MSP and Prince 2. Being able to discuss these frameworks confidently during your interview will demonstrate your expertise and alignment with the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience with Earned Value Reporting and Qualitative Schedule Risk Assessment. Prepare examples from your past roles where you successfully implemented these practices, as they are crucial for the Programme Office Manager position.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of Network Rail, especially those in similar roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you would drive continuous improvement within the Programme Office. Think of specific strategies or initiatives you've implemented in the past that led to enhanced efficiency or effectiveness in project delivery.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Office Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you thoroughly understand the Programme Office Manager role. Review the job description carefully and note the key responsibilities and essential skills required.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: As part of your application, you'll need to complete a supporting statement. Address how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Be specific and provide examples from your experience that demonstrate your qualifications.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is tailored to highlight relevant experience and skills for the Programme Office Manager position. Focus on your project controls expertise, communication skills, and any relevant qualifications like MSP or Prince 2.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to proofread your supporting statement and CV. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Understand the Role
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Programme Office Manager. Familiarise yourself with key terms like project controls, operational assurance, and Earned Value Reporting, as these will likely come up during your discussion.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in managing IT delivery and assurance for programmes. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully implemented project controls and managed supplier relationships in an outsourced environment.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex topics like risk assessments or change control processes. Remember, you’ll be communicating with senior management.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions that demonstrate your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about the current challenges the Programme Office is facing or how they measure success in their projects. This shows you’re engaged and thinking critically about the position.