Planning Interface Manager

BUSINESS FUNCTION:Strategic Development
SALARY: Circa50000 - 55000 per annum / ML2:SB1
ROLE TYPE: Hybrid
HOURS:37 per week
LOCATION: Manchester

Planning Interface Manager North West Industry Programmes

Some of the biggest changes in rail are happening right here in the North West. From the Manchester Recovery Task Force (MNTP) to the West Coast North Mainline Programme (WCNMP) and the Bee Network theres a huge amount of transformation underway and youll be right at the heart of it.

As part of our team at Northern youd be leading the planning activity that shapes our future train service. Youll help make sure our plans align with regional priorities national strategies and most importantly the needs of the people who travel with us every day. Working closely with Network Rail and a wide range of industry partners youll play a key part in keeping Northern services running smoothly throughout all phases of the programme.

What youll be doing

• Leading the development of indicative train service specifications (ITSS) across all North West programmes
• Preparing and overseeing timetable outputs stock and crew diagrams and revised train plans across different programme stages
• Working with our Commercial Team to reduce any impact on revenue from access changes
• Representing Northern at industry consultations and meetings bringing together teams from across the business to make sure were fully involved
• Negotiating access requirements to minimise disruption and ensure customer needs are prioritised
• Developing robust plans for rail replacement and compensation strategies in partnership with colleagues across Operations and Customer teams
• Providing key updates and reporting to internal leaders and Network Rail
• Supporting the Head of NW Industry Programmes with high-quality clear communications material

About you

Planning expertise industry knowledge and a clear calm head thats what youll bring to the table. Youll need:

• Proven experience leading rail planning activity
• A solid understanding of systems and processes like EAS (Engineering Access Statement) TPR (Timetable Planning Rules) and Network Code Part D
• Confident communication skills written and verbal
• Experience influencing decisions and guiding change through clear evidence
• The ability to balance long-term strategy with detailed analysis of timetables traincrew and rolling stock
• Familiarity with project management principles and leading workstreams

Whats in it for you At Northern we dont just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Heres 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 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 youre in.

• Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. Thats why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern Were more than just a train operator. Were the heartbeat of the North connecting communities creating opportunities and driving sustainable growth. With 2500 trains running daily were 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 were 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 dont just move people from A to B were building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if thats something you need. Were also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role well 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 theres a place for you here in the railway.