Planning Manager

The First Bus Network CoE is responsible for bus service performance and producing the day‑to‑day operating plan for our fleet across the UK. Data and route performance analysis is key in managing our service profitability and reliability. Our core services include designing bus routes and timetables, creating vehicle and driver duties to ensure operational efficiency and compliance with regulatory requirements, and preparing contract and tender bids for First. Position Summary The Network Planning Manager leads the local delivery of network planning and development, managing Network Planners and providing critical insight, data and modelling to support long‑term strategy, service changes and franchising readiness. Reporting to the Head of Network, the role holder collaborates cross‑functionally and engages with local stakeholders – including LTAs, depots and community groups – ensuring network plans are operationally viable, customer‑focused, and aligned with performance, budget and growth objectives. Key Responsibilities Intelligent Network Design: Design and optimise bus routes and timetables using planning software, ensuring alignment with customer demand, operational constraints and commercial targets. Leading Tactical Service Change Activity: Lead the team of Network Planners on tactical service change delivery, contributing to short and medium‑term modifications in response to local authority requests, punctuality issues or business priorities. Strategic Network Development: Support the Head of Network with strategic planning activities, providing local insight and data to inform long‑term network strategies, growth opportunities and franchising readiness. Commercial Planning Alignment: Work closely with the Commercial Director to propose and develop Network plans that aim to deliver against the financial and operational targets of the business. Financial Modelling and Forecasting: Lead local modelling and analysis for forecasting, budgeting and tender submissions, including B2B and supported service contracts. Regulatory Compliance Oversight: Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including service registrations, BODS, roadside publicity and internal governance processes. Cross‑Functional Leadership: Lead on the local elements of cross‑functional delivery, working closely with Scheduling Commercial, Operations, Engineering and external stakeholders to align on timelines, checkpoints and service changes. Stakeholder Relationship Management: Actively engage with local stakeholders – including LTAs, community groups, and internal depots – acting as a trusted and responsive partner for the relevant geographic location. Electric Vehicle Integration: Oversee the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into the network, ensuring schedules align with charging and operational requirements. Operating Rhythm and Team Development: Contribute to a structured operating rhythm, feeding into planning cycles, performance reviews, succession planning, team development and service delivery governance. Skills & Experience Industry Experience: Proven experience in network planning or transport operations, ideally in a leadership role. Commercial and Financial Acumen: Strong commercial acumen and a proven track record in cost/benefit analysis. The successful candidate is expected to be highly numerate. Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in network planning and timetabling tools (e.g. Prospective, Optibus) is highly desired. Alternatively, an advanced level of IT literacy is a necessity. Communication and Influence: Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement and influencing skills. Leadership and Team Development: Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high‑performing teams. Local and Operational Knowledge: Geographical knowledge of the areas of operation and responsibility is preferred. Performance Under Pressure: Ability to work in a high‑pressured environment consistently delivering on objectives within timeframe. Regulatory and Compliance Knowledge: Knowledge of regulatory requirements for bus operations (e.g. service registration, BODS). Understanding of EV Management: Understanding of electric vehicle operations and their impact on network planning is an advantage. Public Sector and Partnership Experience: Experience working with or within local authorities or public transport partnerships is desirable. Salary £43‑£50,000 plus up to 15% annual bonus. Benefits Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost – including cash back on optical & dental, virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition & fitness advice. Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 confidential mental health support. Access to a discount platform across high‑street brands and supermarkets. Discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service, and a free bus pass. Cycle to Work scheme. 25 days’ holiday + bank holidays. Pension scheme and opportunity to buy discounted First Group shares. Location Brentwood, England, United Kingdom #J-18808-Ljbffr