Head of Engineering
đź“Ť South London
đź’° Salary: ÂŁ90,000+ (dependent on skills & experience)
At Arriva London, we’re looking for an exceptional Head of Engineering to lead from the front—driving operational excellence, shaping engineering strategy, and delivering high-performing, future-ready fleet services across our South London operations.
This is a pivotal leadership role where you’ll influence business performance at scale, champion innovation (including Zero Emission Vehicle rollout), and develop high-performing teams to deliver safe, reliable, and cost-effective engineering solutions.
If you thrive in a fast-paced, data-driven environment and are passionate about continuous improvement, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.
The Role
As Head of Engineering, you will take ownership of engineering performance across the operation, ensuring delivery against key KPIs, financial targets, and long-term fleet strategy.
You’ll act as the senior technical authority, working cross-functionally with Operations, Finance, Procurement, and HR to optimise performance and deliver sustainable improvements.
Key Responsibilities
1. Lead engineering performance to improve KPIs and deliver strong P&L outcomes
2. Partner with the Head of Operations to ensure seamless technical delivery and service reliability
3. Act as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for engineering, leading supplier and OEM service review meetings
4. Drive data-led improvement campaigns, delivering measurable recovery plans and performance glidepaths
5. Provide leadership and direction to Engineering Managers and Team Leaders, developing capability across the function
6. Oversee compliance with engineering standards, including auditing and process confirmations
7. Take ownership of Lean initiatives, technical campaigns, and continuous improvement programmes
8. Lead the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) rollout, including lifecycle cost modelling and performance tracking
9. Manage engineering budgets, forecasts, and cost performance—ensuring accountability and value delivery
10. Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Procurement, HR, Finance) to enhance frontline garage performance
11. Deliver shared engineering capabilities (e.g. Body Shops, Engine Shops, Training Academy)
12. Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including regulators and suppliers
13. Deputise for the Engineering Director as required
What You’ll Bring
Essential Experience & Qualifications
14. IOSH qualified
15. Transport Manager CPC (or working towards)
16. Strong understanding of P&L management, budgeting, and forecasting
17. In-depth knowledge of fleet strategy and lifecycle costing
18. Proven experience with engineering KPIs, compliance standards, and regulatory frameworks (e.g. DVSA, TfL)
19. Solid grounding in health & safety and ISO/BSI standards
Skills & Expertise
20. Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capability
21. Confident communicator with the ability to influence at all levels
22. Experienced in leading data-driven performance improvements
23. Strong stakeholder management across internal and external partners
About You
You are a results-driven leader with a proven track record in depot or garage management within a regulated transport environment.
You’ll bring:
24. Experience operating within the Transport for London framework
25. A background in vehicle maintenance and DVSA standards
26. Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets and performance targets
27. The ability to motivate, challenge, and develop teams to deliver sustained performance improvements
28. Experience working collaboratively with Trade Union representatives
29. A mindset focused on innovation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence
Why Join Us?
At Arriva London, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking organisation at the forefront of transport innovation. You’ll play a key role in shaping the future of sustainable fleet operations while leading high-impact change across the business.