Development Programme Manager

Application Deadline:
18 November 2025

Department:
Delivery

Location:
Milton Keynes

Description
A little bit about us:
East West Rail is an infrastructure programme linking communities between Oxford and Cambridge. The area is currently let down by a lack of transport choices, and we have a once in a generation opportunity to fix that – improving prosperity for people and places along the way. East West Railway Company (that's us) was created by the Department for Transport (DfT) to oversee the delivery of East West Rail from construction through to wheels in motion, making sure the railway comes together in the right way. At East West Railway Company, we're committed to building an inclusive railway for all. We believe that to do that, we must nurture a diverse team that represents the UK communities that we impact. Our approach is simple – to create an environment where everyone is welcome and able to be themselves. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications of all backgrounds and experiences.

Role Summary:
This role will be responsible for the scheme development of the section of railway through the Bedford area, ensuring integration with other areas and the systemwide railway. This role requires management of the Technical Partner area design team and close liaison with other teams such as Environment, Construction, Railway Operations, Land & Property and Stakeholder Management. It involves strategic oversight, coordination, and integration assurance to achieve project milestones and objectives.

Function:
The Delivery function is accountable for delivering a design which aligns to the Sponsor requirements, establishing a safe, reliable and integrated railway. Delivery will demonstrate delivery excellence through technical innovation and design excellence, underpinned by mature programme controls to maximise the benefit of project delivery in relation to public pound spent. The Delivery function will act as an intelligent and informed integrated team, that uses a network of third-party strategic suppliers to leverage the capabilities required to deliver the asset.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead EWR Co's area team and manage the Technical Partner's area design team, providing strategic direction and oversight to ensure successful project delivery.
• Develop and implement integrated programme plans, schedules, manage scope and coordination of outputs.
• Provide information, support and guidance to other area programme managers to integrate design and deliver a solution which is aligned to a systemwide delivery approach.
• Facilitate effective communication and coordination with internal and external stakeholders including industry partners, local authorities, landowners and local residents.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to address potential issues and drive on-time delivery, to budget.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, safety protocols, and environmental requirements across all project segments.
• Prepare and present programme dashboards, reports, updates, and performance metrics to the Senior Development Programme Manager and other senior leaders.
• Provide contract management input including change control for the administration of the Technical Partner Contract.
• Supporting the Senior Development Programme Manager and Design Director to manage the overall design delivery.
• Contribute to the execution of the EWR Delivery Strategy, creating the right environment, aligning with the Future of the Rail Industry and Developing a Digital Spine.
• Take responsibility of your own and others' health and safety by adopting and working to the EWR Co Safe and Secure principles.
• Demonstrate a cost-conscious mindset, keeping taxpayers' money at the forefront of decisions.
• Show a commitment to innovation by proactively seeking creative solutions to challenges and opportunities.
• Act as a role model for EWR Co's vision and behaviours, working in ways that are aligned with EWR Co's Ways of Working, as well as encouraging and supporting others to do so too.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Significant working experience in project or programme management on large-scale infrastructure projects (preferably railway projects).
• Proven track record of successfully managing and delivering complex capital works programmes on time and within budget, with an emphasis on integration and coordination.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience in overseeing multidisciplinary teams and ensuring cohesive integration of project outputs.
• Experience liaising with a range of stakeholders.
• On-Network scheme development and delivery experience is highly desirable.

Benefits
What we offer:

• Competitive base salary

• Up to 12% employer's pension contribution

• 36 days holiday a year (including bank holidays) + up to 2 days to buy

• Life assurance

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Access to a range of benefits on the Perkbox platform

• On-the-spot and annual awards

• Advanced learning and development programmes

• Great work-life balance and flexible working opportunities

• Enhanced family-friendly policies

• Exceptional IT tools

EWR Co strives to embrace a flexible working environment, where a degree of flexibility is maintained to accommodate both the needs and preferences of employees and what is required to achieve business objectives. EWR Co will always work with any individual to assess and accommodate an individual's work life balance and style

Diversity and Inclusion:
To discover the best solutions, it's important we embrace diversity of thought. That's why we aim to ensure our colleagues feel included, engaged and valued. Inclusiveness is not a buzzword, but a way of being. Our approach to diversity is simple – a workplace where everyone is welcome and everyone is encouraged to be themselves. It helps fuel our innovation and connects us with the customers and communities we serve.

We are open to secondments through the Rail Industry Talent Exchange Programme.