Project Manager

JOB TITLE: Project Manager

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Business Performance/Ops Management

ROLE TYPE: Hybrid

LOCATION: Leeds/York

HOURS: 37 per week

CONTRACT : Fixed Term

POSITIONS AVAILABLE: 4

Job Description

We are excited to offer an opportunity for an aspiring individual eager to develop their skills in project management as part of Northern’s ambitious 90/2 programme. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead projects that focus on improvement initiatives, process development, and stakeholder engagement while adhering to set timescales as we continue our journey towards better performance. You will have the opportunity to directly shape our performance improvement and engage with multiple stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Engagement
• Collaborate with subject matters experts across all parts of Northern and the wider industry to influence and manage change.
• Identify areas for improvement and propose actionable solutions to enhance project outcomes.
• Provide regular progress reports to senior leaders within Northern, identifying risks and opportunities
• Process Development
• Contribute to the development and refinement of processes and rules designed to foster efficiency and effectiveness across projects.
• Work with senior project managers to document existing practices and develop improved methodologies.
• Improvement Initiatives
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts by gathering feedback from team members and stakeholders.
• Support the implementation of strategies aimed at operational excellence and process optimisation.
• Timescale Management
• Help establish realistic timelines for project milestones and deliverables, ensuring alignment with team capabilities and project goals.
• Monitor progress against established deadlines and assist in adjusting plans when necessary.
• Documentation & Reporting
• Maintain accurate records of project plans, process changes, and communications related to improvement initiatives.
• Assist in preparing status reports and presentations for stakeholders to highlight project progress and outcomes.
• Professional Development
• Engage in learning opportunities related to project management best practices, tools, and methodologies.
• Seek feedback and mentorship from experienced project managers to enhance skills and competencies.

Essentials

• Prince 2 qualification or equivalent experience
• Demonstrate interest in project management with some relevant experience preferred
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and familiarity with project management tools

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.
• Holiday Purchase Scheme: Buy up to 5 extra days of annual leave.
• 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, after which rail quickly spread across the globe - and this year, we’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. 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.