Programme Manager
Milton Keynes, GB
ST Programme Management (571115) G1
About Network Rail…
Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter
At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team - you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. Click here to learn more.
We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process. You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support.
If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!
Vacancy Details
Duration: Fixed term of two years with the potential to extend or go permanent. (Please note, secondments are subject to line manager approval, please discuss this with them before applying).
Location: This role is based in Milton Keynes, The Quadrant. This role is a full-time opportunity, flexible working patterns will be considered. For Quadrant:MK, you must live within 90 minutes.
Band & Salary: Band 2B, £71,163 - £81,661
This role is about managing the development and delivery of a portfolio of Buildings & Civils and Security projects to agreed scope, time, cost and quality requirements, working with business customers and their representatives.
About the team...
The Central Projects Team deliver a wide range of projects that enable the organisation and wider industry to deliver change, realise benefits and meet strategic objectives. These fall into three main categories:
We have a friendly and welcoming team environment and put a strong emphasis on learning and continuously improving.
What does the average day look like?
As a Programme Manager, your day is all about keeping key projects and programmes on track—delivering them on time, within budget, and to a high standard through the team of project professionals that you lead. You’ll oversee the planning and progress of multiple projects, making sure everything aligns with Network Rail’s goals and meets performance targets.
We're looking for a confident leader to provide day-to-day line management – someone who can guide, mentor, and empower team members to deliver at their best.
You’ll help set up clear processes, standards, and KPIs to support good programme management. A big part of your role is working with different teams—both inside and outside the business—to make sure everyone is moving in the same direction. This includes managing suppliers, supporting your team’s development, and sharing lessons learned along the way.
You’ll also focus on improving quality and efficiency, spotting where things can be done better. Listening to customer needs and factoring these into any plans or changes is key. And you’ll make sure everything is delivered safely and within company guidelines, including meeting our responsibilities under CDM regulations.
It’s a varied and rewarding role where you’ll play a key part in delivering real improvements to the rail network.
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking a skilled and motivated professional with a proven track record in delivering complex programmes and projects within a regulated environment. You will have strong experience in managing multiple projects, developing assurance frameworks, and implementing programme management standards, all while ensuring alignment with corporate guidelines and regulatory requirements.
You’ll be confident producing investment plans, managing suppliers and teams effectively, and ensuring all activities meet safety, quality, and environmental standards. A collaborative leader, you’ll be adept at building cross-functional virtual teams and driving change through continuous improvement initiatives.
Equally important is your ability to engage with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring customer needs are understood and incorporated into project delivery and strategic decisions. A commitment to developing your team and discharging CDM-related duties in line with company processes will be essential to your success in this role.
If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are passionate about delivering impactful, high-quality outcomes, we’d love to hear from you.
Essential Criteria
Desirable
Closing date: Friday 4th July. However, early application is advised as we reserve the right to close the advert early based on application volumes.
Next Steps: Interviews will be held week commencing on W/C 14th July, depending on business requirements.
Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our Safety Vision
If you require any support with your application, please click here for contact details.
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information
Some of our great benefits:
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???? Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
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Defined benefit pension scheme
???? 75% subsidy on train tickets.
????️ Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
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Plus more….
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