Control Operations Manager [NEW]

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As part of the Transport UK Group, West Midlands Trains delivers around 1,300 train journeys a day, for more than 60 million passengers a year, across our two brands - West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway. We are committed to delivering a safe and reliable train service, by investing in our fleet of trains, stations and employees.

As part of this investment, we are seeking a Control Operations Manager on a Full-Time permanent basis. You will assist be responsible for direct leadership of West Midlands Trains Control centres and staff, responsible for the day-to-day operation and delivery of the Train Service.

What does the job involve?

• Responsible for both Control room sites (West Midlands Signalling Centre [WMSC] and Rugby ROC)
• Responsible for Duty Control Managers, Duty Route and Incident Managers, Train Service Managers and Fleet Control Managers on shift.
• Authority to make real time alterations to West Midlands Trains train services based on available information, knowledge and experience, giving full consideration to West Midlands Trains customer requirements
• Ensure competency of all Control Centre staff is maintained within the prescribed timescales.
• Ensure compliance with all safety responsibilities as detailed in the appropriate Safety Responsibility Statement
• Ensure the Control centre complies with and delivers agreed Contingency and Recovery plans.
• Provide the focal point for the implementation of West Midlands Trains Emergency Plan
• Accountable for ensuring the delivery of the West Midlands Trains daily control log, which will include all relevant safety and performance information
• Responsible for internal check procedures within the Control department
• Responsible for the provision of real time management of the Control department
• Examine West Midlands Trains unit/maintenance/service arrangements and their relevance and advise the Head of Control of any emerging trends.
• Supervise Control Room team, providing guidance, support and coaching as required

What skills and experience do I need to do the job?

Knowledge

• Excellent knowledge of West Midlands Trains operations and geography
• Knowledge of Contingency and Service Recovery Plans.
• Knowledge of safety and quality standards.

Experience

• Substantial experience of working in a rail operational environment. Thrives in complex and demanding situations. Can demonstrate a high level of personal resilience.
• Experience of deploying strategic priorities whilst maintaining performance delivery.
• Demonstrable experience of successfully managing diverse teams through change, developing talent and coaching others.

Skills

• Highly credible leader with a proven track record of performance managing and motivating others to deliver results. Willing to challenge poor performance.
• Pro-active individual with an ability to engage with others quickly to establish relationships.
• Excellent communicator with strong negotiation and influencing skills.
• Able to understand and absorb substantial amounts of information quickly and accurately and drive appropriate action to deliver realistic solutions.
• Well developed written and verbal communications skills.
• Excellent people and team leadership skills gained in a senior management capacity.

What are the salary and benefits?

• Salary - Competitive
• Defined Benefit pension - one of the best in the UK
• Free travel on all our trains and those of other train companies within our parent group company - for you, your partner and any dependent children
• 75% off all other train company travel tickets
• Retail discounts
• Career development opportunities