BUSINESS FUNCTION: Programmes

SALARY: £61,000 - £70,000  / Grade: ML2/SB2
ROLE TYPE: Permanent
LOCATION:  York
HOURS: 37

As part of our Projects management team, you’d be shaping and delivering a major programme of projects across our stations, helping to create spaces that work better for customers, colleagues and communities.

You’d lead a small team focused on delivering a complex and wide-ranging programme of work, bringing together multiple projects, partners and priorities into one clear plan. From upgrades funded through our Business Plan to third-party investments, your work will make a visible difference across the network – improving journeys, modernising stations and supporting the future of rail in the North.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll take broad ownership of large, multi-million-pound programmes and make sure everything connects, runs smoothly and delivers real impact.

• Leading the planning, development and process of station projects across the network
• Building and maintaining a clear, detailed programme of works, keeping everything aligned and on track
• Managing interdependencies across multiple projects, teams and external partners
• Acting as the key contact for major industry partners, including Network Rail and local authorities
• Overseeing programme budgets, schedules and change control processes
• Making sure projects are delivered safely, on time and within budget
• Coordinating resources across internal teams and external contractors
• Identifying risks early and putting plans in place to manage them
• Reporting progress clearly to stakeholders at all levels
• Supporting the Property Project Lead and stepping in when needed

About you

Running a programme of this scale takes a mix of clarity, confidence and calm under pressure. You’ll know how to bring people together, keep things moving and make decisions that deliver results.

Here’s what you’ll bring:

• Experience leading large, complex programmes in a rail industry environment – ideally with multiple moving parts and dependencies
• A strong track record of delivering projects on time and within budget
• Confidence working with a wide range of stakeholders and building lasting relationships
• Demonstrable direct line management experience
• Solid understanding of planning, risk management and programme governance
• Commercial awareness and the ability to manage significant budgets
• Experience in property, construction or infrastructure projects – that’s a big plus
• A degree or equivalent experience, with programme or project management qualifications helpful but not essential

Most importantly, you’ll be someone who can connect the dots – turning complexity into clear, deliverable plans and keeping everyone moving in the same direction.

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.