New Trains Mobilisation Team Programme Manager
Strategic Development
Based in York, Manchester or Leeds

Salary: Up to £90,000 depending on experience

Introduction

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on. Behind every reliable service is a huge amount of planning, coordination and teamwork. As part of our Strategic Development team, you’d be right at the centre of one of the biggest transformations in our history – bringing a brand-new fleet into service.

You’ll lead the mobilisation effort that makes sure everything is ready when those trains arrive – from infrastructure and engineering to people, processes and performance. It’s complex, high-profile work with a clear outcome: getting new trains safely and smoothly into service across the North.

What you’ll be doing

• You’ll lead the mobilisation programme end-to-end, connecting people, plans and priorities across the business.
• Coordinating a cross-functional mobilisation team, bringing together workstreams from across Northern
• Building and managing a clear, joined-up programme plan with defined milestones and dependencies
• Working closely with manufacturers, suppliers, infrastructure partners and internal teams to keep everything aligned
• Driving progress through matrix management of multiple workstream leads
• Managing risks, issues and changes – spotting challenges early and putting plans in place to keep things on track
• Acting as the main escalation point, helping teams overcome barriers and keep momentum
• Ensuring strong programme governance, with clear reporting and communication to stakeholders at all levels
• Supporting engineering and operational readiness across TrainCare Centres and infrastructure
• Embedding change across the organisation so new ways of working stick long after delivery 

About you

• This is a role for someone who can see the big picture while keeping a close eye on the detail.
• Strong programme leadership, stakeholder management and change delivery – that’s the foundation
• Experience in the rail industry, particularly with rolling stock and mobilisation or transition programmes
• Knowledge of Manufacture Supply Agreements (MSA) and Train Service Support and Supply Agreements (TSSSA)
• Confidence managing complex, high-value programmes with multiple moving parts
• Ability to lead through influence, bringing together teams across different functions
• Clear, calm communication – whether you’re updating senior leaders or working through challenges with delivery teams
• A practical approach to problem-solving, with the flexibility to adapt plans as things change
• If you can bring structure to complexity and keep people moving in the same direction, you’ll fit right in.

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.
• 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 2,500 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.

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.