Head of Network

5 days ago

Reading, United Kingdom First Bus Full time

We have a fantastic opportunity for a Head of Network to join our Network department on a full time permanent basis. **(Hybrid working available).**

The role will lead the network planning and scheduling teams across the Local Business Unit. The role will also oversee the production of driver duties and rota production, with the aim of improving driver satisfaction whilst not compromising efficiency.

**The Day to Day**
- Lead a team of network planners and operational schedulers within a First Bus framework and be a key advocate of data and technology
- Accountable for service profitability and driving profitability improvement at a bus service level
- Accountable for monitoring and improving punctuality performance through use of advanced technology
- Monitoring performance of the road network across the LBU and targeting local authorities for improvements with the aim of improving overall journey speed and reducing variability
- To identify local network growth initiatives through analysis and assist with smooth implementation delivering national network development opportunities at a local level
- Maximise revenue opportunities and cost efficiencies through optimal deployment of vehicle fleet and assist with implementation of the First Bus decarbonisation program within the LBU.
- Work with central pricing team to ensure pricing has a positive impact on network profitability and forms part of network improvement plans.
- Maintain strong links with key internal stakeholders, including but not limited to; commercial, finance, depot leadership teams, revenue, marketing and customer services.
- Lead conversations with local authorities on network activity, providing data led evidence to support proposals and drive performance improvement
- Produce network or route development proposals with full cost/benefit analysis for the Commercial Director for sign-off or onward referral and lead on post implementation reviews of actions
- Manage the preparation of tender bids for submission with recommendation to the LBU Senior Leadership team and monitor ongoing performance.

**Skills/Experience**
- Excellent customer service focus
- Sound financial understanding and should be able to demonstrate experience of performing cost/benefit analysis
- Commercial awareness
- Experience of motivating and leading a medium-sized team
- Ability to lead a team across a wide geographical LBU footprint
- Strong analytical capabilities
- Aptitude to build and maintain stakeholder relations, indicative of a professional leader
- Strong influencing and negotiation skills

**Salary**:

- competitive, plus annual bonus

**Rewards & Benefits**
- First Xclusives discount scheme: You and your family & friends can benefit from over 3,000 offers on high street & leisure brands
- Free travel on our buses for you and your family
- £6 all-day train travel for you and your family on Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, Avanti, Hull Trains
- Cycle to work scheme
- 25 days' holiday + bank holidays
- Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
- Enhanced maternity / paternity pay
- Flexible working

We put a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing at First Bus. We recognise that anyone can be affected by the stresses and strain of work, or life outside it. You'll find a range of health-promotion initiatives, and you will have 24/7 access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme.

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