Projects & Programme Manager - Light Rail Systems

Employer:

Location:

Manchester, M1 3BG

Pay:

Competitive

Contract Type:

Permanent

Hours:

Full time

Disability Confident:

No

Closing Date:

15/02/2026

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is embarking on a generational programme to renew and enhance Metrolink the UK’s largest light rail network.

We’re looking for an experienced systems professional with a background in light or heavy rail (such as signalling, power, or communications) who thrives on collaboration and building trust.

If you’re excited by the opportunity to lead complex technical programmes that directly improve services for Greater Manchester’s communities, this could be the role for you As part of our Metrolink Portfolio Team, you’ll play a key role in shaping the future of the Bee Network through long-term systems renewal and upcoming network expansion projects.

Your Role As a Project and Programme Manager within the Metrolink Portfolio at Transport for Greater Manchester you will work in partnership to:
Lead an integrated, multi-disciplinary team on all aspects of the procurement of a long-term Technology Partner to renew, upgrade & modify our Tram Management System, which will ensure the existing system continues to function safely and effectively and ensures future expansion of the system (new stops, lines, fleet) Support and develop high-performing programme teams, creating an inclusive and empowering environment where colleagues can learn, thrive, and deliver on shared commitments.

You’ll champion continuous improvement across the Portfolio.

Facilitate the development of an integrated delivery schedule for the Metrolink Systems Programme.

This schedule will inform critical decision-making and align our work with other major programmes, including renewals, enhancements, extensions, and fleet upgrades.

Lead on establishing an ongoing mutually beneficial relationship with the appointed Technology Partner, respective teams and senior internal / external stakeholders.

In addition, you will be a key member of the Management Group taking an active role in leading the day to day running of the Projects Group function, within TfGM. For more information, please see the role profile at the bottom of the advert.

Who are we?

Projects Group is a collaborative, multidisciplinary department of around 150 colleagues  lead the planning and delivery of projects and programmes that help improve transport for people across Greater Manchester This position is part of the Metrolink programme team, which plays a vital role in sustaining, growing and transforming the Bee Network With Metrolink at its heart You’ll be helping to deliver meaningful improvements for the thousands of residents, businesses, and visitors who depend on our transport infrastructure each day.

As well as developing and delivering an ambitious programme of funded schemes you will have the opportunity to help shape future Metrolink infrastructure proposals, working closely with our operator partner and other key stakeholders.

What you’ll bring You’ll bring senior experience in leading complex projects or programmes within safetycritical rail systems, including supervisory control systems and their interfaces such as signalling, power, and communications.

You’ll understand how these systems operate in a live environment and how to manage their development, renewal, and delivery.

You’ll also have experience in leading and supporting teams in technical project or programme settings, creating an environment where people can perform at their best and contribute to shared outcomes.

You’ll be confident in building strong, collaborative relationships with a wide range of supply chain partners, using your communication skills to engage effectively with senior stakeholders across political, professional, and public audiences.

You’ll have strong problem solving and negotiation skills, with the ability to interpret complex written and numerical information to support decision making, meet funding requirements, and keep programmes on schedule.

What we can offer you This is a permanent role in the Metrolink Programme Team sat within Projects Group with a salary range between £87,205 and £98,152 per…