JOB ROLE: Driver Training Team Leader
SALARY: £74,927
ROLE TYPE: Permanent
HOURS: 37 Hours
LOCATION: Manchester
This role will be instrumental in driving the Training Transformation programme, shaping and delivering a modernised Level 3 Train Driver Apprentice Programme. It represents a step change in how driver training is designed and delivered, including the use of motion and static simulation as core learning tools.
The successful candidates will lead the East and West training teams through a period of change, providing clear direction, support, and engagement to ensure a smooth transition to new ways of working while embedding simulation into the wider training offer.
They will also support the development of two new state-of-the-art training academies, helping to establish a modern, industry-leading training environment.
The Driver Training Team Leader will lead and develop a high-performing training team delivering compliant, high-quality, learner-focused training across non-driver service delivery functions, including apprenticeships and operational upskilling.
The role is key within Learning, Talent & Development, with responsibility for curriculum design, training quality, safeguarding, compliance (OFSTED/ESFA), and driving continuous improvement aligned to Northern’s transformation agenda.
- Lead and develop a high-performing training team
- Ensure training meets regulatory and operational requirements
- Improve apprenticeship outcomes and learner success
- Maintain safeguarding and safety-critical standards
- Support digital innovation and transformation projects
- Ensure audit readiness and compliance
- High-quality training delivered consistently and on time
- Strong apprenticeship achievement and progression rates
- Engaged, high-performing teams with low turnover
- Positive external audit outcomes (OFSTED/RSSB)
- Continuous improvement in learner experience
- Recognised as a trusted business partner
Experience & Qualifications
- Level 5 qualification or equivalent experience
- Assessor/Verifier (or willingness to achieve)
- IOSH Managing Safely (or willingness to achieve)
- Training & Development qualification (or equivalent)
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in safety-critical operational environment
- Proven leadership and apprenticeship/FE delivery experience
- Inspiring and resilient leadership
- Strong stakeholder management and collaboration
- Change leadership and innovation mindset
- Clear communication and problem solving
- Ability to embed new technology in training delivery
- Strong focus on performance and outcomes
This is a safety-critical role and the successful candidate must be within a 45-minute commute of the workplace.
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.
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.
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.
