Scheme Project Manager – East Digital Programme (Kings Cross to Grantham & Lincolnshire)
Contract: Inside IR35
Location: Hybrid – covering the stretch from Kings Cross, London to Grantham & Lincolnshire
Sector: Rail Infrastructure – Network Rail Programme Delivery
We are looking for an experienced Scheme Project Manager with proven Network Rail project delivery experience to join the East Digital Programme. This programme is at the forefront of the UK’s digital railway transformation, modernising signalling and control systems across the East Coast Main Line to deliver improved performance, capacity, and passenger outcomes.
As a Scheme Project Manager, you will take accountability for the safe and effective delivery of low-complexity projects (LoC 3 and 4), or support the delivery of key outputs within larger, more complex programmes (LoC 1 and 2). Operating within the GRIP framework and Network Rail governance, you will manage multidisciplinary teams, oversee budgets, and maintain stakeholder engagement to ensure projects are delivered to agreed time, cost, quality and safety standards.
Key Accountabilities
Deliver low-complexity projects, or defined components of larger projects, in line with GRIP, Network Rail standards, legislation, and HMRI guidance.
Support the Project Sponsor in capturing and managing project requirements.
Manage and coordinate multi-disciplinary teams to identify solutions and establish robust delivery baselines.
Identify, assess and manage risks, implementing mitigation strategies and addressing emerging issues.
Develop and maintain resourcing strategies, securing internal and external resources as required.
Build and manage strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring alignment and collaboration.
Oversee project budgets, forecasts and financial performance.
Lead project and governance reviews, providing clear reporting on progress, risks, and issues.
Implement change control and configuration management processes.
Support accident and incident investigations where required.
Skills & Experience
Essential:
Proven Network Rail project delivery experience within a Scheme Project Manager or equivalent role.
Degree-level qualification or equivalent relevant experience.
Membership (or working towards) of the Association for Project Management.
PRINCE2 Foundation or equivalent project management certification.
Strong commercial awareness with experience in contracting, project delivery and budget management.
Effective stakeholder engagement and communication skills at all levels.
Knowledge of project safety management, CDM Regulations and Health & Safety legislation.
Ability to evaluate project information and make clear, evidence-based decisions.
Desirable:
Strong working knowledge of GRIP processes and their application in a rail delivery environment.
Familiarity with Network Rail’s procurement, commercial and investment frameworks.
Track record of risk identification, management and mitigation.
Knowledge of Network Rail’s assets, systems and asset management practices.
Flexible, proactive approach with the ability to thrive in multi-disciplinary teams