DEPUTY Operations Manager; Railways

Our client is hiring for an Deputy Operations Manager to assist and provide direct support to the Operations Director in the management of railway operations and the execution of the operational strategy defined by the Executive Director.

Lead day-to-day management, ensure effective resource coordination, and act as the operational point of contact with the Client in support of, or in the absence of, the Director. Actively contribute to operational efficiency, service delivery results, and ensure continuity in line with contractual, safety, and corporate objectives.

• Assist in leading the overall operational strategy defined by the Executive Director.
• Support the approval and oversight of the transportation plan and operational schedules, ensuring feasibility in terms of staff, trainsets, and infrastructure.
• Ensure alignment between operational plans and corporate objectives defined by Renfe.

• Closely supervise the execution of daily railway operations across all locations.
• Optimize resource allocation plans for drivers, supervisors, and operational staff.
• Ensure adequate staffing levels across all locations and full coverage of operation staff duties.
• Ensure the availability of resources for alternative and contingency transportation plans.

• Monitor daily delays and operational incidents, ensuring proper root cause analysis and the implementation of corrective actions.
• Act as Rail Incident Commander (RIC) as required, activating contingency and emergency response plans and assuming full authority to ensure continuity of service when the Operations Director is unavailable.
• Monitor operational performance through defined KPIs and ensure accurate and timely operational reporting to senior management and clients.

• Participate in, and lead (when delegated), regular operational coordination meetings with the Client.
• Coordinate closely with Rolling stock, Infrastructure, Safety, HR, Commercial, and any other departments.
• Ensure operational compliance with safety, regulatory, and contractual requirements, as well as the Safety Management System (SMS).
• Ensure staff competencies match operational and safety requirements, and support related training and development plans.

• Perform any of the tasks detailed in the Job Description for the Operations Director position to ensure the uninterrupted performance of the department in their absence.

Railway operations experience in management and/or operational positions of at least 10 years.