Rail Network Performance Manager

Do you have an in-depth knowledge of rail operations and a sound understanding of railway geography?

Are you a data whizz, eager to channel your analytical prowess towards enhancing the overall journey experience for rail passengers across the region?

If so, this may be the perfect role for you.

West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) are looking for a Rail Network Performance Manager to elevate their understanding of how reliably local and regional train services are being delivered to customers, harnessing operational data to drive positive change. Through close collaboration with train operators and Network Rail, you will use data from various sources to vigilantly monitor the performance of the West Midlands rail network, collating, analysing and reporting on a diverse range of quantitative and qualitative operational and customer data sets.

WMRE is the devolved body with responsibility for working with the rail industry and local authority partners to deliver better rail services in the West Midlands. WMRE is co-owned by the West Midlands Combined Authority, who have just been awarded £2.4bn in transport funding to help it deliver an exciting portfolio of projects locally. We jointly manage the West Midlands Rail National Rail Contract with the Department for Transport and actively support the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and other strategic bodies with their progressive development agendas. We are negotiating a partnership with the future Great British Railways that will give a greater say to local people through democratically accountable bodies like WMRE and WMCA.

This is a vital role for WMRE as you will be at the heart of helping drive continuous improvement by equipping the organisation with the facts and figures required to enhance the customer experience. Not only will you be analysing complex information and presenting it in a way that resonates with any audience, but you will work on the network, observing first hand operational delivery and highlighting areas for improvement.

This role needs someone who is highly analytical, has strong attention to detail and is self-motivated. This is great opportunity to work across the rail network, making a positive contribution to refine the rail experience for our valued passengers.

What you will be doing

• Use operational data, real time systems and first-hand observation to obtain, analyse and report on rail network reliability, punctuality and customer service delivery.
• Work with train companies and Network Rail to design and implement a collaborative performance improvement approach.
• Represent rail at Transport for West Midlands multi-modal operational forums.
• Act as the focal point for train service performance and customer service delivery within the WMRE team
• Lead and deliver performance improvement projects in partnership with the rail industry.
• Maintain the integrity of the rail performance and customer delivery data held by WMRE and TfWM.
• Represent WMRE/TfWM at the West Midlands Grand Railway Collaboration Performance Taskforce

What’s essential

• Self-motivated with an ability to work flexibly.
• An in-depth knowledge of railway operations
• Focused with an eye for detail.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Analytical and numerate with the ability to interpret and present data in a meaningful and constructive manner.
• Experienced in using Power BI

Location.

The location for this role is 16 Summer Lane with at least 1 day a week spent in the office.

How to apply.

Applying for a role with WMCA is straight forward. Follow these steps to get started.

1. Create your Careers Account. Register with your name, email address, and a password.
2. Build your Profile. Upload your CV to help populate your career and education details.
3. Write your Supporting Statement. Make sure to address each of the required essential criteria.
4. Submit your application. Do one final check and once complete, click submit.

Anonymised Applications.

Your uploaded CV won’t be visible after submission. Our process is anonymised, and only the information in your profile is used for shortlisting. Be thorough in each section. it’s your chance to showcase your skills and experience.

Using Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We cannot stop anyone from using AI help write application content. Used right, it can be a great tool. If you choose to use AI, then use it as a helper rather than relying on it wholly to write your application.

Applications that rely too heavily on AI may be rejected during shortlisting. For help on how to write a supporting statement, please visit the FAQs section of our careers site.

Reasonable adjustments.

If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with our Recruitment Team ([email protected]).

Salary and benefits.

We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate. This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will not be considered.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Local Government Pension Scheme (one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK).
• 28 days paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more), giving you have ample time to relax.
• Ethical saving options and healthcare plans.
• Discounted gym membership.
• An option to buy a bicycle, including e-bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.
• 3 days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
• Interest free financing through SmartTech to buy the latest technology
• Discounted shopping with over 2,000 big-name retailers, and more.

For more information, please visit the benefits page on our career site.

Why join WMCA?

WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home.

We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our partners to direct funding where it's needed most. What you do, really matters. Your expertise will help make a big difference, improving people's lives, every day.

Creating an inclusive workplace.

WMCA holds diversity accreditations, such as the RACE Code Quality Mark, Armed Forces Covenant (Gold status) and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times Top 50 Employers for Women. We’re a Disability Confident Employer with ‘Leader’ status, committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria.

We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable ones, even if they don't fit the traditional "perfect candidate" mould.

We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don't let these factors deter you from applying

Right to Work in the UK

Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed.

Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).