Job Description

Area Driver Manager Bletchley

Application Deadline: 2 June 2026

Department: Operations

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Bletchley

Reporting To: Lee Sullivan

To lead and manage a team of Driver Managers to deliver train safety, performance, service reliability and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, coach, and develop a team of Driver Managers, ensuring they effectively manage and assess the competency of Drivers.Work closely with the Head of Train Crew to agree business and performance targets, creating actionable plans to achieve objectives. Cascade performance goals through regular meetings, monitoring progress and driving continuous improvement.Foster a positive working environment, managing employee relations processes and promoting engagement as measured by employee surveys. Maximise driver productivity by overseeing attendance, disciplinary processes, and ensuring timely delivery of route and traction knowledge.Manage recruitment and onboarding of staff as required.Take responsibility for on-call duties, incident management, and command responsibilities (including TOLO).Ensure full compliance with safety standards and competence assessments for all staff.Implement recommendations from incident and accident investigationsCollaborate with the Head of Drivers to design and deliver customer service improvement plans based on SQMS and NPS feedback.Develop and implement employee engagement initiatives informed by survey results.Maintain effective two-way communication channels, including safety brief compliance.Manage budgets, prepare forecasts, and contribute to strategic business cases and projectsSupport the delivery of wider company objectives and strategic initiatives

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of West Midlands Trains operations and regional geography
• In-depth knowledge of Driver rules, regulations, and terms & conditions
• Familiarity with safety and quality standards within a rail environment.

Skills

• Proficient in the use of computer applications and digital tools
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively.
• Strong planning and organisational skills, able to prioritise tasks for self and others.
• Confident in data analysis, problem-solving, and delivering practical solutions

Experience

• Proven track record of motivating, coaching, and developing teams in a challenging operational environment.
• Experience in project management, including deployment and successful delivery.
• A credible leader with experience managing geographically dispersed teams
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and achieve performance/service targets across diverse metrics.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently and collaboratively

Job Benefits

• Competitive Salary + Benefits
• Free travel on all our trains
• 75% off all other train company travel tickets
• Pension – one of the best schemes available
• Retail discounts
• Career development opportunities