Big change is underway across the North. The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is one of the UK’s most ambitious rail programmes, and Northern is at the heart of delivering it. From large-scale infrastructure improvements to smoother, more reliable journeys, TRU is transforming how people travel across the Pennines.

As a Communications Executive working on TRU, you’ll play a key role in telling that story. You’ll help ensure colleagues, customers and communities understand what Northern is delivering and why it matters. This is a varied, high-profile role spanning stakeholder engagement, content creation and media relations — with real opportunity to make an impact across the region.

• Supporting the Transpennine Route Upgrade Communications Lead in delivering the communications strategy

• Creating engaging content across multiple channels, including newsletters, social media, press releases, posters and internal communications

• Building awareness of the TRU programme and Northern’s role through clear, consistent messaging

• Managing relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including government bodies, local communities and industry partners

• Supporting media relations activity, including drafting press materials, arranging interviews and responding to enquiries

• Planning and delivering events such as community drop-ins and industry briefings

• Helping colleagues across Northern understand, engage with and champion the TRU programme internally

You’re a confident communicator with a creative mindset and a talent for building relationships. You’ll likely have a degree-level qualification (a relevant subject is desirable) and at least three years’ experience in a communications role. Design or artworking skills would be an advantage, but strong writing and clear messaging are essential.

You’ll bring experience in stakeholder engagement, project coordination, content creation and media relations, along with a good understanding of the digital and media landscape. Comfortable working at pace, you’ll be able to manage multiple priorities and adapt as projects evolve.

This is a hybrid and flexible role, but you’ll need to be able to travel along the TRU route when required, particularly across Leeds, Manchester, York and Huddersfield.

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:

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 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.

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.