Project Support Manager

Job Description

JOB ROLE: Project Support Manager

BUSINESS FUNCTION: Programmes

SALARY: £36,804 - £40,000

ROLE TYPE: Hybrid

CONTRACT: 18 month FTC

LOCATION: Manchester - with travel across network

HOURS: 37 per week

At Northern Trains, we’re working to build a better railway for the North. As part of that journey, we’re delivering a range of transformation projects to improve how we work and the service we provide to our customers.

We’re looking for a Project Coordinator to support the planning, coordination and delivery of complex projects across our Retail Transformation programme.

This is a great opportunity for someone who is organised, proactive and enjoys working with a wide range of stakeholders to help keep projects moving forward.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll work closely with project managers, senior leaders and delivery partners to support the successful delivery of key initiatives.

Your role will include:

• Supporting the planning and coordination of multiple projects

• Ensuring project documentation is accurate and up to date

• Helping develop presentations, reports and business cases

• Managing diaries and coordinating Retail Transformation meetings and workshops

• Tracking actions, risks and project progress

• Supporting the monitoring of project and programme budgets

• Coordinating supplier deliverables and ensuring key milestones are met

• Maintaining project documentation including status reports, risk logs and implementation plans

• Keeping project managers and senior stakeholders updated on progress

What we’re looking for

You’ll ideally have:

• Experience supporting complex projects or programmes

• Knowledge of project management tools and methodologies

• Strong skills in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

• Experience using planning tools such as MS Project

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail

• The ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

Membership of (or working towards) the Association for Project Management would be beneficial.

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.
• 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 2,500 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.