Operational Readiness Manager (TRU)

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Operations
SALARY: £50,000 to £55,000 per annum / ML1:SB3
ROLE TYPE: Hybrid
LOCATION: Leeds/Manchester
HOURS: 37 per week

Big changes are happening across our network.

The Transpennine Route Upgrade, known as TRU, is reshaping infrastructure, modernising stations and depots, and introducing new technology such as the European Train Control System, or ETCS. It means new layouts, new service patterns, new training, and new ways of working for our traincrew. And it all needs to land safely, smoothly, and with minimal disruption to the people who keep our railway moving.

As part of our Operational Readiness team at Northern, you’ll turn complex TRU plans into workable, real-world delivery. You’ll make sure every operational impact is understood, planned for and embedded – from driver and conductor training to station changes and major engineering events. This is where project expertise meets railway know-how.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll lead the Operational Readiness for TRU related projects that affect service delivery across the Northern network and shape them into practical implementation plans that work on the ground.

That means you’ll:

• Translate TRU infrastructure and timetable changes into clear operational delivery plans
• Identify project interdependencies, risks and knock-on impacts – and resolve them before they become problems
• Lead the planning and coordination of traincrew training and briefings linked to infrastructure change
• Protect the efficient use and competence of traincrew during periods of change
• Oversee operational readiness activity for new stations, depot changes and stabling alterations, including safety documentation and platform train interface risk assessments
• Act as the key interface between Northern, TRU project teams, Network Rail, trade union representatives and internal operational leaders
• Influence project direction to ensure Northern’s operational and financial interests are fully considered
• Support Service Delivery and Control teams through major engineering events, diversions and rail replacement activity
• Provide clear updates and reports to senior leaders, including Directors of Service Delivery
• Deputise for the Head of Operational Readiness and other senior operational leaders when required
• Your remit covers the full Northern network wherever TRU has an impact. You’ll have the authority to represent Northern in industry forums and make decisions that keep projects on track.

About you

Project delivery experience, railway operational knowledge, and stakeholder credibility – that’s the combination that matters here.

You’ll bring:

• Proven experience delivering complex projects, ideally in a rail or operational environment
• A strong understanding of railway operational methods, safety standards, rules and regulations
• Practical experience in a traincrew role, or in-depth knowledge of how drivers and conductors work day to day
• The confidence to influence senior leaders, external partners and trade union representatives – even when conversations are challenging
• The ability to build trusted, lasting relationships across multiple teams and organisations
• Clear thinking, sound judgement and strong organisational skills
• A good grasp of budgets and the financial impact of operational decisions
• A project management qualification such as PRINCE2 is helpful, but your real strength will be turning plans into practical delivery while keeping safety and service at the heart of every decision.
• You’re comfortable stepping into senior spaces, professionally challenging assumptions, and finding solutions that balance operational reality with ambitious infrastructure change. Most importantly, you understand what success looks like for traincrew and frontline teams – and you plan with them in mind.

As part of this role you will need to complete a safety critical medical.

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.