Operations Manager – Long Marston, Warwickshire
Our client specialises in the leasing of all types of railway rolling stock and associated equipment. Based in Derby with a corporate Head Office in London, they are leading the way in fleet innovation and added-value services, while ensuring that fleet assets are managed to deliver the highest levels of performance and reliability for customers.
A new opportunity has arisen for an experienced Rail Operations Manager to join the team at the 135-acre Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre in Warwickshire. A £75m investment has established the site as a premier facility for testing new traction technologies, secure rolling stock storage, and live environment training.
The site hosts the UK’s only continuous test loop and the country’s largest outdoor rail exhibition – “Rail Live”.
Role Purpose
This is an excellent opportunity to join a business running an innovative railway test loop in an outstanding facility.
This role will be accountable for leading the safe, efficient delivery of all rail operations at the site through effective planning and management of the rail operations team, this includes shunters, train drivers and depot colleagues.
You will deliver exceptional operational leadership, embedding a proactive safety culture and ensuring compliance with all relevant operational standard and procedures.
As a highly visible and people-focused manager, you’ll drive continuous improvement and ensure best-in-class operational performance.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage the rail operations team to ensure safe, efficient and timely delivery of all rail operations.
Develop and manage rosters and resource allocation to deliver operational plans.
Plan all operations, chairing planning meetings
Work closely with the Operations Safety & Standards Manager to implement the Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) and ensure all standards and procedures remain fit for purpose.
Support the Operations Trainer and Assessor to maintain team competence across all rail operations.
Manage capacity planning across all yards and sidings to support pipeline and project delivery.
Conduct operational audits and quality checks to monitor compliance and identify areas for improvement.
Act as the main point of contact for external customers, stakeholders and suppliers.
Mentor and support the Operations Team Leader, ensuring robust management coverage during absences.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Strong knowledge of rail operations including overseeing driver training, shunting, and depot procedures.
- Previous line management experience within a rail operations environment
- Proven ability to deliver safe, compliant and efficient operations
- Excellent understanding of the Railway Rule Book, Health & Safety legislation and relevant industry standards
- Shunting experience
- Effective communicator with strong leadership and people management skills
- Demonstrable experience in developing a positive safety culture
- Excellent knowledge of railway operations (mainline and depot)
- Knowledge of ORR guidance document “Managing Staff Competence – Railway Safety Publication 1”
- Excellent knowledge of non-technical skills in a railway operational environment
Desirable:
- Formal management qualification
- IOSH Managing Safely
- Qualified train driver
- Trained Accident Investigator
- Personal Track Safety certification
- You may have performed the role of Train Driver, Driver Trainer, Driver Team Manager or Operations Manager
Benefits Package:
On offer is comprehensive package including:
- Competitive salary
- Bonus
- Excellent pension scheme
- Ongoing professional and personal development
- Life assurance and healthcare cash plan
- 25 days’ annual leave and Bank Holidays (with buy/sell options)
To be considered for this role you must live within a true maximum 45-minute commute from Long Marston, Warwickshire. For people outside the area who meet the requirements and would relocate the company will consider a one of relocation payment.
To apply please send your CV with salary expectation and notice period to
