Project Manager

Application Deadline: 1 January 2026

Department: Delivery

Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract

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 part of the programme delivery team leading the next Connection Stage (CS) of East West Rail; namely the Marston Vale Line acceleration (MVLa) project. You will support the Programme Manager leading a client team of project managers, engineers and sponsors to design and deliver the various infrastructure interventions along the MVL. To enable additional passenger and freight services to operate and deliver the railway system output. This role involves oversight, coordination, and integration assurance to achieve project milestones and objectives across the line of route (oxford to Bedford) to ensure the CS2 scope is fully aligned and integrated with the end state railway system (CS3). The role will involve working in a 'one team' environment with Network Rail (NR) and the East West Rail Alliance (EWRA) who will design and construct the works.

Function:
The Delivery function is accountable for delivering an asset 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

• Play a client role in leading a 'One Team' project delivery team providing strategic direction and oversight to ensure successful project delivery to achieve the service output.
• Co-ordination of integrated programme plans, schedules, and budgets, ensuring interoperability and coordination of outputs across CS2 and CS3 scopes to achieve the overall EWR programme objectives.
• Provide route wide guidance as required by the Programme Manager to support NR to design and deliver a solution which is aligned to a central approach.
• Facilitate effective communication and coordination across East West rail, NR and the EWRA to ensure cohesive integration of deliverables and project milestones.
• Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to address potential issues and ensure on-time delivery.
• Prepare and support the Programme Manager in presentation of programme reports, updates, and performance metrics to the Delivery Executive and other senior stakeholders.
• Support the production of change control for the administration of the NR remit to ensure the project remains within authorised budget agreed with the DfT and adhering to governance and assurance requirements across DfT, EWRCo and NR
• Take responsibility of your own and others' health and safety by adopting and working to the EWR Co Health and Safety principles.
• Demonstrates a cost-conscious mindset, keeping tax payers' money at the forefront of decisions.
• Shows 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

• Strong working experience in project management, with a focus on large-scale infrastructure or railway construction projects; including experience of PACE.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex construction projects on time and within budget.
• Strong knowledge of project management methodologies, tools, and software (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project).

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
• Perks platform with hundreds of discounts and freebies
• 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