Onboard Systems Service Improvement Manager
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BUSINESS FUNCTION: Engineering
SALARY: £54,391
ROLE TYPE: York with travel across the Northern network
HOURS: 37 per week
People come to Northern for trains they can rely on, and stay because they can shape what comes next. Our On Board Systems team is focused on doing just that – improving how technology on our trains serves our customers and staff every day. As our Digital On Board Systems Service Improvement Manager, you’ll lead a team responsible for driving and delivering changes that enhance those digital services across our fleet.
You’ll take a leading role in shaping and delivering our Onboard Systems Strategy. Working alongside engineers, operations, suppliers and tech experts, you’ll build and run a structured programme of service improvements that makes our systems smarter, safer and more responsive to passenger needs. If you’re ready to blend tech know-how with project leadership to make a real difference on the railway, this is your platform to do it.
What You’ll Be Doing
* Leading the planning and delivery of projects that improve digital systems on board our trains
* Defining a service improvement programme that captures the right priorities and tracks them through to completion
* Managing a small team of analysts and collaborating with technical, operational and supplier teams
* Ensuring improvements are secure, safe, and aligned with regulatory and cyber‑security standards
* Turning insights and stakeholder input into practical, visible improvements that support better customer experiences and operational efficiency
* Ensuring all changes are well scoped, risk‑managed, reviewed and reported for impact
About You
* A recognised qualification (or be working toward one) in project or programme management
* At least 5 years’ experience delivering projects and programmes using formal methods
* Experience leading cross‑functional teams and embedding change into live services
* A solid understanding of how digital systems operate within a rail or regulated environment
* A knack for spotting what needs to change and the drive to see it through, safely and securely
What’s in it for you
* 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: 9 months 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: Tailored training and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications.
* Recognition: 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
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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