IT Portfolio Manager (Projects)

Job Description

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Finance
SALARY: £79,000 - £85,000 /Grade: Executive
ROLE TYPE: Permanent
LOCATION: Leeds or York
HOURS: 37 per week

Behind every reliable journey is a network of systems working quietly in the background. From real-time information to ticketing and internal infrastructure, technology keeps Northern moving.

In this role, you’d set the direction for how IT change happens across the business. You’ll lead the full portfolio of technology projects, making sure the right work is prioritised, delivered well, and brings real value. It’s a senior leadership role with a wide view – connecting strategy, delivery and performance so that every investment in infrastructure and software technology helps Northern run better, smarter and more efficiently.

You’ll work closely with senior leaders across the business, helping shape decisions, balance priorities and make sense of complex challenges. At the same time, you’ll bring the IT function together – aligning teams, setting standards and creating a clear, consistent way of delivering change.

What you’ll be doing

• Setting the strategic direction for IT change, portfolio delivery and performance across the function
• Leading and developing a team of Project Managers and Planning Analysts, creating a high-performing, well-supported environment
• Owning the IT change portfolio, making sure projects are delivered on time, within budget and to the right quality
• Working with senior stakeholders to shape demand, align priorities and balance cost, risk and benefits
• Managing IT financials, including budgets, forecasts and long-term planning
• Overseeing resource planning to make sure the right skills are in place at the right time
• Providing clear, decision-ready insight on performance, risks and progress to senior leaders
• Leading governance, risk and compliance activity across IT, including GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and cyber security considerations
• Managing supplier relationships and major contracts, ensuring strong performance and value
• Bringing together teams across IT – including Operations, Architecture, Data and Business Analysis – to deliver as on.
• Driving continuous improvement, creating more predictable, efficient and effective delivery

About you

This role is all about clarity, leadership and balance – seeing the big picture while keeping delivery on track.

You’ll bring experience leading complex IT portfolios, with the confidence to work at senior level and influence key decisions. You know how to turn strategy into action and how to keep things moving when priorities compete.

Here’s what will set you up for success:

• Strong experience leading large-scale IT portfolios and managing multiple projects at once
• A track record of leading and developing teams in a delivery-focused environment
• Confidence working with senior stakeholders, including executive-level leaders
• Experience managing budgets, resources, risks and performance across IT
• The ability to explain complex ideas clearly and influence decisions at board level
• A structured approach to governance, planning and delivery, with a focus on outcomes
• Prince2 Practitioner (or equivalent project or portfolio management qualification)
• Degree, A-Level or equivalent experience

If you’ve worked in environments where demand is high, resources are finite and expectations are evolving, you’ll feel right at home.

What’s in it for you?

At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.

Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.

Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.

Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.

Electric Car Scheme: Lease a brand new electric or plugin hybrid car.

Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.

Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.

Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.

Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern?

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,650 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, beginning a journey that would transform travel across the world. We’ve recently celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and, as we reflect on that legacy, our focus is now on the future as Great British Rail takes shape. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.

At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B - we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We're also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.

We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.

No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.