Senior Project Manager
Application Deadline: 28 May 2026
Department: Delivery
Employment Type: Permanent
Location: Milton Keynes
Reporting To: Senior Development Programme Manager (East)
Description
East West Rail is an infrastructure programme linking communities between Oxford and Cambridge. The area is currently let down by a lack of transport choices, and we have a once in a generation opportunity to fix that – improving prosperity for people and places along the way.
East West Railway Company (that’s us) was created by the Department for Transport (DfT) to oversee the delivery of East West Rail from construction through to wheels in motion, making sure the railway comes together in the right way.
At East West Railway Company, we’re committed to building an inclusive railway for all. We believe that to do that, we must nurture a diverse team that represents the UK communities that we impact. Our approach is simple – to create an environment where everyone is welcome and able to be themselves. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications of all backgrounds and experiences.
Role Summary
The Senior Development Project Manager (SPM) is responsible for managing the design development of a section of the route connecting the proposed new railway with existing railway infrastructure as EWR builds towards submitting a Development Consent Order. This presents opportunities but also challenges that the SPM must proactively manage. The project interfaces are complex and multi-disciplinary with significant interest from a large variety of stakeholders within and outside of EWR. This role involves oversight, coordination, and integration assurance to achieve project milestones and objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and manage detailed project plans, schedules, and budgets for significant work packages.
* Key point of contact within the geographical area, both with internal EWR stakeholders and external stakeholders, acting as a conduit between the area and the programme to ensure information is actively shared to enable action.
* To focus on the development of single option design, including extensive engagement with external stakeholders as East West Rail work towards the preparation of the Development Consent Order.
* Matrix management of a multi-disciplinary team across design and engineering.
* Act as the single point of contact for project delivery for the respective area.
* Work closely with other team members to ensure that there is a collective awareness of activities being undertaken across all geographical areas.
* Balancing the need for tailored area solutions whilst serving the programme.
* Recognition of the EWR project as a whole so it can achieve its objectives.
* Sequencing of activities across areas to ensure economies of scale.
* Providing consistent messaging and approach across areas.
* Ensuring interfaces across the programme are appropriately identified and managed.
* Coordinate and collaborate with engineers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to ensure project alignment and compliance.
* Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to address potential issues.
* Oversee quality control and safety management processes to ensure adherence to industry standards and regulations.
* Prepare and present progress reports, updates, and project documentation to senior management and stakeholders.
* Manage project resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to optimise efficiency and productivity.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Qualifications
* Relevant degree for the role
* Relevant industry qualifications – APM/ MSP or other
Experience
* Strong project management experience across scope, schedule and cost in the design of transport infrastructure projects.
* Extensive experience of project controls including periodic reporting, assumptions management, contract administration, document management.
* Experience of client role in public consultations and dealing with external bodies.
Skills / Knowledge
* Familiarity with business cases, benefits management, client requirements.
* Proactive and effective team player with a deep understanding of multidisciplinary roles and the ability to inspire high performance.
* Strong commitment to delivering a high-quality output and to driving high standards across the team.
Benefits
* Competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience
* Up to 12% employer pension contribution to support your future
* 36 days annual leave (including bank holidays) plus the option to buy up to 2 extra days
* 2 volunteering days, a chance for you to give back to the community
* Enhanced family-friendly policies to support you and your loved ones
* Life assurance (4x your annual salary) for peace of mind
* Employee Assistance Programme for confidential support when you need it
* Access to Perkbox for a wide range of discounts and wellbeing benefits
* Recognition programme, including on-the-spot and annual awards
* Advanced learning and development opportunities to help you grow.
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