Job Description

BUSINESS FUNCTION:

Strategic Development

SALARY:

Executive Grade

ROLE TYPE:

Hybrid

LOCATION:

York

Director of New Rolling Stock

People come to Northern for trains they can rely on - and stay to shape what comes next. As our Director of New Rolling Stock Programmes, you'll be at the helm of one of the most ambitious transformations on the railway. Over the next decade, you'll lead the full journey from business case to delivery - replacing Northern's ageing diesel trains with a new generation of clean, modern, low-emission fleets. This is about more than just trains - it's about changing the environmental footprint of rail in the North.



Reporting to the Strategic Development Director, you'll steer a billion programme that goes beyond procurement. Your decisions will shape how we decarbonise, how we design for future passenger needs, and how we move from plan to platform with minimal disruption. If you've been waiting for the kind of challenge that leaves a legacy, this is it.

What you'll be doing

You'll lead the development and execution of Northern's new rolling stock strategy, working across the business and with external partners to get the job done. That means:


Making the case for change and securing government approval through detailed business case submissions. Setting technical, operational, and infrastructure requirements for a new fleet that aligns with decarbonisation targets. Exploring innovative funding models and whole-life cost planning to maximise value. Leading the end-to-end delivery of new trains - from specification and procurement to manufacturing, testing, and service introduction. Coordinating with engineering, operations, safety, and depot teams to ensure we're ready for the switch. Managing risk, budget, and performance reporting across a multi-year, high-profile programme.

About you

Project leadership, decarbonisation strategy, and a deep understanding of rolling stock - that's your wheelhouse. Here's what else you'll bring:


Chartered Engineer status (or working towards it), with a degree-level engineering qualification. At least five years' experience in senior roles, with a strong track record delivering complex programmes in rail. Knowledge of DMU (Diesel Multiple Unit), EMU (Electric Multiple Unit), and hybrid technologies like battery and hydrogen-powered rolling stock. Commercial and financial know-how - including contract negotiation and innovative funding approaches. Confident working across multiple teams and stakeholders - from depot technicians to Department for Transport (DfT). A focus on safety, customer impact, and long-term value.

What's in it for you?

At Northern, we don't just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here's a taste of what you can look forward to:

Free Travel:

Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.

Generous Pension Scheme:

We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.

Enhanced Family Benefits:

We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.

Cycle to Work Scheme:

Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.

Exclusive Discounts:

From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.

Employee Assistance Programme:

24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.

Training and Career Development:

We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you're in.

Recognition:

We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That's why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern?

We're more than just a train operator. We're the heartbeat of the North - connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we're on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.



Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe - and this year, we're celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.



At Northern, we don't just move people from A to B - we're building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that's something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we'll always offer an interview.



We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.



No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob... there's a place for you here in the railway.