Deputy Head of Drivers

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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 Deputy Head of Drivers. As The Deputy Head of Drivers, you will attend Driver Company Council (DCC) and will support on consultations and negotiations with ASLEF appropriate to the role in a supporting capacity to the Head of Drivers. A primary focus of the role will be to lead on the development of Safety initiatives to drive safe and efficient operational performance. This post will also take on other accountabilities as assigned by the Head of Drivers.

What does the job involve?
• Support the Head of Drivers and Driver Strategy Manager with the design and implementation of the Driver Function Strategy and Industrial Relations Strategy, which will include engagement with ASLEF.
• Assist with the development and implementation of initiatives to achieve improved Trade Union engagement and relationships
• Briefing out key changes and agreements that are made at DCC to the wider Driver Management and Operations teams.
• Leading on Driver safety performance through chairing Safety of the Line Working Groups, attending safety forums, and chairing Safety Performance Review Panels where appropriate.
• Lead the strategy and development around on-going compliance with standards and procedures relating to Drivers.
• Remote on call responsibilities.
• Link in with Onboard and Stations to ensure there is a link between the different union relationships across the business.

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

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Strong knowledge of railway operations.
• Detailed knowledge of the collective bargaining machinery.
• Knowledge of Driver Terms and Conditions.
• Proven experience in key Operational leadership roles.
• Highly experienced in negotiation with a proven track record in difficult negotiations and dispute resolution.
• Proven experience in working in demanding TU environments.
• Ability to respond to a wide range of complex and conflicting interests and to communicate effectively with key stakeholders in their resolution.

What are the salary and benefits?

• Competitive Salary and package
• 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