At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the largest tram network in the UK, ensuring high performance and customer satisfaction.
- Company: Join a key player in Greater Manchester's public transport system.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to shape the future of transport.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth and to drive sustainable transport solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on public transport while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in rail operations and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
For the purpose of the expected award in Manchester for the project detailed below, we are looking for expression of interest for the position of Managing Director.
The TfGM Metrolink is the largest tram network in the UK and a central component of the Bee Network, supporting Greater Manchester’s ambition to deliver an integrated, high-performing public transport system.
Key Dimensions
- 103 km network across 8 lines
- 99 stops/stations
- 46 million passenger journeys annually
- Approximately 871 employees
- 147 trams (Bombardier M5000)
- 2 depots and 2 control centres
Operations
- Combination of segregated and street-running tram operations
- Line-of-sight driving with signalling at junctions
- Operational hours: approx. 05:30 – 00:30/01:30
- Peak frequency: 6 minutes (Mon–Sat), reduced on Sundays
Infrastructure & Systems
- 750V DC overhead line electrification
- Ticket vending machines, passenger information displays, and CCTV at all stops
- Network Management Centre and Disaster Recovery Centre
Contract Overview
- 10-year contract (7+3 structure)
- Scope includes Operations, Maintenance, and Renewals
Strategic Context (TfGM Objectives)
- Deliver high and consistent customer satisfaction
- Maintain safe and secure operations for passengers and staff
- Put people first through workforce engagement and capability development
- Maintain and grow the network through performance and asset management
- Ensure long-term sustainability across financial, environmental, and operational dimensions
Growth & Investment
- Network growth from 31.5 km (1992) to 103 km today
- Planned enhancements including new stops, fleet upgrades, control systems, and extensions
Your role as a Managing Director:
- Provide overall leadership, strategic direction, and accountable delivery of the Tram Operations contract in line with TfGM objectives and the wider Bee Network strategy.
- Lead mobilisation and transition while embedding a high-performance, customer-focused culture.
Key Responsibilities
- Full P&L and contract accountability for operations, maintenance, and renewals
- Lead mobilisation and transition into steady-state operations
- Build and maintain a strong partnership with TfGM and key regional stakeholders, supporting Bee Network integration
- Deliver against TfGM objectives including customer satisfaction, safety, sustainability, and network growth
- Lead organisational design, workforce planning, and capability development
- Drive performance against contractual KPIs including reliability, safety, and customer experience
- Champion a “people first” culture with strong engagement, inclusion, and social value outcomes
- Ensure alignment with Greater Manchester’s transport and community objectives
Coaching & Mentoring
- Coach and develop the senior leadership team to build tram and light rail capability
- Mentor emerging leaders to strengthen succession and organisational resilience
- Embed a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and knowledge transfer to the existing workforce
Key Performance Indicators & Success Measures
- Delivery of contractual KPIs across safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction
- Achievement of TfGM performance targets and contribution to Bee Network outcomes
- Successful mobilisation delivered on time and within agreed parameters (where applicable)
- Measurable improvement in operational performance and efficiency
- Positive workforce engagement and retention metrics
- Demonstrable improvement in capability and performance of existing teams
- Strong stakeholder satisfaction (TfGM and partners)
Candidate Profile
- Proven MD or Director-level experience in rail, tram, or light rail operations
- Strong mobilisation, transformation, and contract leadership experience
- Demonstrated success in complex stakeholder environments, ideally within UK public transport
- Strong leadership, communication, and organisational development capability
Managing Director in Manchester employer: Transdev
Transdev UK is an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the transport sector. Based in Manchester, you will benefit from a collaborative work culture that encourages innovation and professional growth, while being part of an international group that values local operations. With opportunities for development and a focus on winning tenders, this role offers a rewarding career path in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Director in Manchester
✨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 Transdev.
✨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 Transdev. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Director in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at Transdev, 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 Transdev 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 Transdev. 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 Transdev
✨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 Transdev.
✨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 Transdev.
