Head of Engineering - North East

Arriva Group•Blythe, CA

About The Position

We’re looking for a commercially minded and people-focused Head of Engineering to lead our North East region, driving operational excellence, safety performance, and team engagement across a diverse engineering network. This is a pivotal leadership role, overseeing multiple depots and a large workforce of engineers and technicians. You’ll play a key part in ensuring our fleet runs safely, reliably, and efficiently, supporting our commitment to providing excellent service to our customers and local communities every day.

Requirements

A proven engineering leader with multi-site or regional management experience.
Strong technical knowledge of fleet maintenance (bus, coach, rail, HGV, or related sector).
Excellent people leadership and coaching skills – able to engage, motivate, and develop teams.
Commercially astute, with a track record of improving performance, cost control, and efficiency.
Passionate about safety, quality, and customer service.
Strong stakeholder management and communication skills at all levels.

Nice To Haves

Relevant engineering qualification (HNC/HND or equivalent) desirable; management training advantageous.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic and operational leadership across multiple engineering sites within the North East region.
Ensure delivery of robust engineering standards, including vehicle safety, reliability, and compliance.
Drive performance improvements in productivity, cost efficiency, and asset utilisation.
Develop and empower Depot Engineering Managers to build engaged, high-performing teams.
Lead on fleet modernisation, sustainability initiatives, and new technology integration.
Manage budgets, maintenance planning, and performance reporting in line with company KPIs.
Champion a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and safety-first operations.
Partner with Operations and Commercial teams to ensure engineering supports wider business goals.