TRU Communications Executive

Job Description

BUSINESS FUNCTION: People
SALARY: £36,804 per annum / ML1:SB1
ROLE TYPE: Hybrid
HOURS: 37 per week

CONTRACT: FTC - Until March 2027
LOCATION: Leeds / York / Manchester

Big change is underway across the North. The Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU) is one of the UK’s most ambitious rail programmes, and Northern is at the heart of delivering it. From large-scale infrastructure improvements to smoother, more reliable journeys, TRU is transforming how people travel across the Pennines.

As a Communications Executive working on TRU, you’ll play a key role in telling that story. You’ll help ensure colleagues, customers and communities understand what Northern is delivering and why it matters. This is a varied, high-profile role spanning stakeholder engagement, content creation and media relations — with real opportunity to make an impact across the region.

What you’ll be doing

• Supporting the Transpennine Route Upgrade Communications Lead in delivering the communications strategy

• Creating engaging content across multiple channels, including newsletters, social media, press releases, posters and internal communications

• Building awareness of the TRU programme and Northern’s role through clear, consistent messaging

• Managing relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including government bodies, local communities and industry partners

• Supporting media relations activity, including drafting press materials, arranging interviews and responding to enquiries

• Planning and delivering events such as community drop-ins and industry briefings

• Helping colleagues across Northern understand, engage with and champion the TRU programme internally

About you

You’re a confident communicator with a creative mindset and a talent for building relationships. You’ll likely have a degree-level qualification (a relevant subject is desirable) and at least three years’ experience in a communications role. Design or artworking skills would be an advantage, but strong writing and clear messaging are essential.

You’ll bring experience in stakeholder engagement, project coordination, content creation and media relations, along with a good understanding of the digital and media landscape. Comfortable working at pace, you’ll be able to manage multiple priorities and adapt as projects evolve.

This is a hybrid and flexible role, but you’ll need to be able to travel along the TRU route when required, particularly across Leeds, Manchester, York and Huddersfield.

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.