Northern
ETCS Programme Manager
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BUSINESS FUNCTION: Strategic Development
SALARY: £61,064 - 71,794 / Grade: ML2/SB2
ROLE TYPE: Permanent
LOCATION: York
HOURS: 37
Railway upgrades don't happen by accident. They happen because people bring together complex programmes, different organisations and shared ambitions to deliver something that will benefit millions of journeys for years to come.
As part of our Strategic Development team at Northern, you'd lead our involvement in the European Train Control System (ETCS) elements of the two of the UK's biggest rail programmes - the Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) and the West Coast North Modernisation Programme (WCNMP). Your focus will be on the rollout of ETCS, the next generation of digital signalling that will transform how trains operate across the network.
This is a role with real influence. You'll help shape how Northern prepares for change, represent us across the rail industry and make sure we're ready to unlock the benefits of digital railway technology. If you enjoy bringing people together, turning strategy into delivery and making complex programmes easier to navigate, you'll feel right at home.
What You'll Be Doing
You'll be the link between Northern and our industry partners, working closely with Network Rail and programme teams to keep ETCS delivery on track.
Day to day, you'll:
- Lead Northern's contribution to the TRU and WCNMP ETCS programmes.
- Develop and oversee programme plans that keep projects on time, on budget and focused on the right outcomes.
- Build strong relationships across Northern, Network Rail, the Department for Transport (DfT), Rail North Partnership and other train operators.
- Put effective governance, reporting and decision-making processes in place.
- Monitor progress, manage risks and opportunities, and provide clear updates to senior leaders.
- Lead and support programme and project teams, helping remove barriers and keeping delivery moving.
- Shape and deliver Northern's business change strategy, making sure colleagues are ready for new ways of working.
- Balance the needs of industry programmes with Northern's operational priorities, ensuring both work together successfully.
- Act as the first point of escalation for ETCS projects within Northern.
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About You
Big programmes, multiple stakeholders and competing priorities – that's the kind of challenge that motivates you.
You'll bring:
- Experience of successfully leading complex programmes or major projects from planning through to delivery.
- A degree-level qualification or equivalent experience, alongside a recognised project or programme management qualification, or significant practical experience.
- Knowledge of the UK rail industry and an understanding of how large, multi-partner programmes operate.
- Experience establishing governance, reporting frameworks and decision-making processes.
- Confidence communicating with everyone from technical specialists to senior executives, adapting your approach to suit your audience.
- Strong planning, risk management and budget awareness, with the ability to make evidence-based decisions.
- The ability to influence, collaborate and build trusted relationships across organisational boundaries.
Most importantly, you'll see the bigger picture. You'll understand that delivering a successful programme isn't just about milestones and plans – it's about helping people embrace change and ensuring Northern is ready for the future of railway operations.
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.
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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.
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