Are you a seasoned leader in the bus industry with a passion for operational excellence and delivering high-quality service? First Bus London is seeking General Manageracross multiple London locations to lead our teams, shape strategy, and deliver performance at the highest level.
About the Role
As a General Manager, you'll take full accountability for the strategic and operational performance of one or more London locations, ensuring service excellence, financial control, and a strong safety culture. This is a key leadership role, reporting directly to the senior leadership team and acting as a visible and influential figure within the business.
You will drive continuous improvement and culture change, lead complex union relationships, and ensure strong working partnerships with key stakeholders, particularly Transport for London (TfL).
Key Responsibilities
* Set and deliver strategic direction in collaboration with Directors and Senior Managers.
* Own full P&L responsibility including forecasting, budgeting, and cost management.
* Lead safe, efficient, and high-quality operations aligned with contractual and TfL standards.
* Build and maintain strong industrial relations and manage union negotiations.
* Coach and develop operational management teams, driving high performance and accountability.
* Actively engage with TfL, representing First Bus London in key forums and decision-making.
* Champion a strong health, safety, and compliance culture across garages and fleet.
* Constantly challenge the status quo to embed best practices and innovation.
What We're Looking For
We're seeking a proven operational leader with:
* Extensive senior-level experience in the bus industry, ideally within the London regulated market.
* In-depth knowledge of TfL operations, compliance requirements, and stakeholder engagement.
* A Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) in Passenger Transport & Road Haulage.
* Demonstrated success managing unionised environments and driving culture change.
* Excellent financial acumen and commercial judgement.
* Outstanding leadership and people management capabilities, with the ability to motivate, influence, and inspire at all levels.
* A results-driven mindset with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Education & Qualifications
* BTEC Higher National Diploma, Diploma of Higher Education, or equivalent.
* Relevant management or transport qualifications are advantageous.
Why Join First Bus London?
* Lead in a dynamic, high-profile environment where you can make real impact.
* Be part of a company that's shaping the future of sustainable urban transport.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Opportunities for career progression across one of the UK's leading transport groups.
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