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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operational planning and performance insights to enhance member services.
- Company: Join Railpen, a key player in managing £34 billion in pension assets for the rail industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, 28 days leave, generous bonuses, and private medical insurance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities while working in a supportive, values-driven environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in operational reporting, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement is essential.
- Other info: This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship; applicants must have UK work rights.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Railpen Darlington, England, United Kingdom
Overview
An exciting newly created opportunity to join our Member Services team as an Operational Planning and Performance Manager on a permanent basis, based in our Darlington office (hybrid working).
Who we are
Railpen is responsible for the safekeeping and investment of around £34 billion in assets and the administration of several pension schemes, including the Railways Pension Scheme, one of the UK\’s largest and longest established pension funds.
Our heritage of looking after the pension needs of the rail industry and its employees gives us our name and our unique outlook on how we serve our members. Railpen takes a holistic view, focusing on how we serve members today and how we can positively impact the communities and the world they will retire into.
Our values of integrity, community and alignment are the guiding principles that influence our behaviour. They help us make decisions and shape our relationships with others. They’re what we stand for. You will actively demonstrate our values, helping to create a safe environment, to place the needs of the community above oneself and, through a culture of ‘fair challenge’, align to the best interests of our members.
To learn more about Railpen including our values, culture and purpose, visit our LinkedIn Life page here.
The role
As our Operational Planning and Performance Manager, you will lead the design and delivery of accurate management information and trend analysis to support operational delivery and strategic planning. You’ll develop a robust framework for resource planning and performance insight, ensuring our services are aligned with a member-first vision.
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.
The person
The successful candidate will have proven experience in operational reporting and performance insight, alongside experience of both back office and telephony environments, ideally in a financial services environment. You will also have experience in capacity planning, business case development, and benefit realisation. An understanding of operating models and pension administration processes would be desirable.
We are looking for someone with advanced data creation, analysis and forecasting skills and strategic planning and performance management expertise. Effective stakeholder engagement and communication skills are key for this role.
What we can offer you
Rewarding you
- A competitive salary (depending on experience)
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Generous annual bonus plan
- We provide membership of the Railways Pension Scheme, a Defined Benefit arrangement under which you get a pension for life and a lump sum when you retire, based on your length of service and pay
- 4x Life Assurance cover
- Private Medical Insurance
- Employee assistance programme
- Health cash plan
Lifestyle
- We support hybrid and flexible working along with very generous family leave including 12 months full pay maternity leave and 6 months full pay paternity leave
- Buy and sell holidays
- Give as you earn scheme
- Flexible half days leave
- Electric vehicle leasing
- Cycle to work scheme
Next Steps
If you would like to apply, please click on the apply button or visit our Careers Page by 1st September 2025.
Railpen is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment, we value diversity and welcome people from all backgrounds and walks of life
Seniority level
- Not Applicable
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Management
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Operational Planning & Performance MGR employer: Railpen
Contact Detail:
Railpen Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Operational Planning & Performance MGR
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Railpen's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to community and member-first service will help you align your responses during interviews, showcasing how your personal values resonate with theirs.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience in operational reporting and performance insight. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully implemented data analysis or capacity planning in previous roles, especially in financial services.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your stakeholder engagement skills. Think of instances where you've effectively communicated complex information to various audiences, as this role requires strong communication abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the pension administration processes and operating models relevant to Railpen. Showing that you have a solid understanding of these areas will set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Operational Planning & Performance MGR
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Operational Planning & Performance Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on showcasing your proven experience in operational reporting and performance insight. Provide specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your expertise in capacity planning, business case development, and stakeholder engagement.
Emphasise Soft Skills: In addition to technical skills, Railpen values effective communication and stakeholder engagement. Make sure to include instances where you've successfully collaborated with others or led teams, as this will resonate well with their community-focused values.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only reiterate your CV but also express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention Railpen's values and how you embody them, particularly integrity and community, to show that you're a good cultural fit.
How to prepare for a job interview at Railpen
✨Understand Railpen's Values
Before your interview, take some time to familiarise yourself with Railpen's core values of integrity, community, and alignment. Be prepared to discuss how these values resonate with you and how you can embody them in your role as an Operational Planning and Performance Manager.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Given the emphasis on operational reporting and performance insight, be ready to provide examples of your experience with data analysis and forecasting. Highlight specific projects where your analytical skills led to improved outcomes or efficiencies.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement Questions
Effective communication and stakeholder engagement are crucial for this role. Think of instances where you've successfully engaged with stakeholders, resolved conflicts, or facilitated discussions that led to positive results. Be ready to share these experiences.
✨Demonstrate Your Understanding of Pension Administration
While not mandatory, having a grasp of pension administration processes will set you apart. Brush up on relevant concepts and be prepared to discuss how your knowledge can contribute to Railpen's mission of serving its members effectively.
