At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex rail programmes and collaborate with industry partners to deliver innovative solutions.
- Company: Join Northern, the heartbeat of the North, transforming rail travel for millions.
- Benefits: Enjoy free travel, generous pension, enhanced family benefits, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team where everyone feels welcome and valued.
- 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 61064 - 71794 £ per year.
BUSINESS FUNCTION: Strategic Development
SALARY: £61,064 - 71,794 / Grade: ML2/SB2
ROLE TYPE: Permanent
LOCATION: York
HOURS: 37
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
You’ll be the link between Northern and our industry partners, working closely with Network Rail and programme teams to keep ETCS delivery on track.
Day to day, you'll
- 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 (Df T), 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
ETCS Programme Manager employer: Northern
Northern is an excellent employer, offering a unique opportunity for Night Train Cleaners in Manchester to enjoy unlimited free travel and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth. With tailored training programmes and a generous pension scheme, we foster an environment where every team member can thrive and develop their skills while contributing to the cleanliness and readiness of our trains.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ETCS Programme Manager
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like ETCS Programme Manager at Northern!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Northern or be willing to refer you for that ETCS Programme Manager position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Northern who’s on the lookout for their next ETCS Programme Manager star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time ETCS Programme Manager role at Northern!
We think you need these skills to ace ETCS Programme Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Northern. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northern
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Northern. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
