Project Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager, Operations Manager

Position: Project Manager (Contract)
Location:

North East

Salary:
Negotiable

Contract Type:
Contract (Permanent Considered) - Working pattern: 40 hours per week | Hybrid (60% office based)

We’re recruiting on behalf of a specialist rail consultancy for an experienced Rail Project Manager to support the delivery of complex rail enhancement projects across York and the North East. This role can be offered on a permanent basis, and our client will also consider contractors.

About the opportunity

This is a chance to join a growing, values-led consultancy environment where people are supported to develop and progress. You’ll work collaboratively with a strong team and play a key role in delivering a varied portfolio of high-profile rail schemes.

Current projects include major station upgrades, re-signalling, new station buildings and enhancement works, alongside technical and advisory services on major programmes.

The role

As Rail Project Manager, you’ll help plan, coordinate and deliver multi-disciplinary projects, managing operational railway interfaces and ensuring safe, compliant delivery from start to finish.

Key responsibilities

* Lead the development and delivery of high-value, multi-disciplinary rail projects, managing risks that affect the operational railway.

* Manage interfaces with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring compliance with governance and assurance requirements.

* Support compliance with relevant rail legislation and obligations, ensuring project outputs and deliverables are achieved.

* Interpret client scope and programme requirements, turning these into clear operational interface needs and practical solutions to support timely decision making.

* Work with CDM and duty holders to ensure compliance with CDM Regulations.

* Secure and coordinate resources, report progress against milestones, and manage contingency actions when required.

* Support alignment across organisations on infrastructure change proposals in line with CSM-RA requirements.

* Track, assess and report on project performance and risk across the full project lifecycle.

* Capture lessons learned and agree mitigation actions with stakeholders to strengthen project proposals.

* Build strong stakeholder relationships, manage expectations and advocate for project objectives.

* Identify clashes or conflicting activities, driving coordinated delivery and efficiency.

* Support investigations into accidents, incidents and close calls, ensuring learning is shared appropriately.

What we’re looking for

Essential

* Degree qualified in Project Management or a related discipline.

* APM membership (or working towards).

* PRINCE2 Foundation (or equivalent).

* Strong knowledge of the operational railway and rail infrastructure.

* Proven delivery experience in a rail project environment.

* Understanding of programme controls and commercial requirements.

* Knowledge of HSE legislation and requirements including CDM and CSM-RA.

* Experience managing project budgets.

* Knowledge of rail possessions and isolations.

Desirable

* Experience delivering third-party projects on Network Rail infrastructure.

* Knowledge of the Network Rail Asset Protection Process.

* Full project lifecycle delivery experience.

* Consultancy background (1–2 years within a project management consultancy setting).

What’s on offer

* Competitive rates or salary (dependent on experience)

* Hybrid working (60% office based) and flexibility where possible

* Strong benefits package including annual leave entitlement, private medical cover, healthcare cash plan, bonus and volunteering days

* Clear development pathways and support for professional qualifications

* Inclusive, people-first culture with a recruitment process that focuses on more than just a CV

Interested?

Apply via this advert or contact us for a confidential conversation. We’ll share full details (including the employer) with suitable candidates at the appropriate stage