At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex rail programmes and collaborate with industry partners to enhance train operations.
- Company: Join Northern, a key player in transforming rail travel across the North.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, generous pension, family benefits, and exclusive discounts.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to connecting communities and driving sustainable growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of railway operations and embrace digital transformation.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading major projects and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Railway upgrades don't happen by accident. They happen because people bring together complex programmes, different organisations and shared ambitions to deliver something that will benefit millions of journeys for years to come. As part of our Strategic Development team at Northern, you'd lead our involvement in the European Train Control System (ETCS) elements of the two of the UK's biggest rail programmes - the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) and the West Coast North Modernisation Programme (WCNMP). Your focus will be on the rollout of ETCS, the next generation of digital signalling that will transform how trains operate across the network. This is a role with real influence. You'll help shape how Northern prepares for change, represent us across the rail industry and make sure we're ready to unlock the benefits of digital railway technology. If you enjoy bringing people together, turning strategy into delivery and making complex programmes easier to navigate, you'll feel right at home.
What you'll be doing
- Lead Northern’s contribution to the TRU and WCNMP ETCS programmes.
- Develop and oversee programme plans that keep projects on time, on budget and focused on the right outcomes.
- Build strong relationships across Northern, Network Rail, the Department for Transport (DfT), Rail North Partnership and other train operators.
- Put effective governance, reporting and decision‑making processes in place.
- Monitor progress, manage risks and opportunities, and provide clear updates to senior leaders.
- Lead and support programme and project teams, helping remove barriers and keeping delivery moving.
- Shape and deliver Northern’s business change strategy, making sure colleagues are ready for new ways of working.
- Balance the needs of industry programmes with Northern’s operational priorities, ensuring both work together successfully.
- Act as the first point of escalation for ETCS projects within Northern.
About you
Big programmes, multiple stakeholders and competing priorities – that's the kind of challenge that motivates you. You’ll bring:
- Experience of successfully leading complex programmes or major projects from planning through to delivery.
- A degree‑level qualification or equivalent experience, alongside a recognised project or programme management qualification, or significant practical experience.
- Knowledge of the UK rail industry and an understanding of how large, multi‑partner programmes operate.
- Experience establishing governance, reporting frameworks and decision‑making processes.
- Confidence communicating with everyone from technical specialists to senior executives, adapting your approach to suit your audience.
- Strong planning, risk management and budget awareness, with the ability to make evidence‑based decisions.
- The ability to influence, collaborate and build trusted relationships across organisational boundaries.
Most importantly, you’ll see the bigger picture. You’ll understand that delivering a successful programme isn’t just about milestones and plans – it’s about helping people embrace change and ensuring Northern is ready for the future of railway operations.
What’s in it for you?
At Northern, we don’t just value our people – we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:
- Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
- Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
- Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
- Electric Car Scheme: Lease a brand new electric or plugin hybrid car.
- Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
- Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
- Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
- Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.
Why Northern?
We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,650 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment. Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, beginning a journey that would transform travel across the world. We’ve recently celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and, as we reflect on that legacy, our focus is now on the future as Great British Rail takes shape. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.
A place for everyone
The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board. At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B – we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We’re also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview. We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment. No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.
ETCS Programme Manager employer: Northern Trains Limited
Northern Trains Limited is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture where team members are valued and encouraged to grow. Located at the Heaton TrainCare Centre, employees benefit from unlimited free travel and a generous pension scheme, making it a rewarding place to work while contributing to the vital operations of train maintenance in the North.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ETCS Programme Manager
✨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 Northern Trains Limited.
✨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 Northern Trains Limited. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace ETCS Programme Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at Northern Trains Limited, 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 Northern Trains Limited 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 Northern Trains Limited. 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 Northern Trains Limited
✨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 Northern Trains Limited.
✨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 Northern Trains Limited.
