Head of Projects

Arriva Group • Pacifica, CA

6d • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a results-driven Head of Projects to set up and head the Rail Services PMO, oversee complex projects and coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure timely, on-budget, and high-quality delivery. They will design and lead change strategies for major initiatives and oversee stakeholder engagement, communications, and training. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, technical project management experience, and the ability to manage stakeholder expectations while fostering collaboration across all Rail Services businesses. They will have strong project risk management and governance experience, providing assurance to Executive-level teams at a range of forums. They will also be passionate about developing others, providing guidance, support and leadership to ensure capability is embedded and sustained across Rail Services. This role can be based in either Crewe or York and operates on a hybrid working model. Due to the scope of the role and its responsibility across the whole Rail Services business, regular travel to sites and operational teams should be expected. About You You will be an experienced project leader with a proven track record of delivering complex, high‑value programmes. You bring clarity, organisation, and strategic focus, and can influence at all levels. You are passionate about developing people, driving improvement, and enabling effective cross‑functional working.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years experience in senior project or programme management roles.
• Strong understanding of project governance, methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile), and best practice standards.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Strong financial and risk management capability.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards of delivery.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive change.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the end‑to‑end project lifecycle across all business units.
• Own and continuously improve project governance, methodologies, and reporting frameworks.
• Manage budgets, risks, dependencies, and resource planning for the entire project portfolio.
• Oversee stakeholder engagement, ensuring accurate, clear, and timely communication.
• Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to agreed quality standards.
• Change management leadership.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: No Education Listed