Shape the Future of Public Transport with First Bus

The UK's bus industry is evolving, and First Bus is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. As franchising and contract-based services become more prominent, we're embracing the opportunity to shape the future of sustainable transport in partnership with local authorities and key stakeholders.

To help drive this transformation, we're looking for a Business Development Researcher to join our growing team. This role is key to supporting and coordinating the successful delivery of large-scale franchising and contract-based bids, ensuring First Bus continues to deliver high-quality, efficient services to communities nationwide.

Why Join Us?

Our Growth team plays a pivotal role in securing stability and future success. This is an opportunity to be part of a team that is shaping the next generation of public transport.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Conducting in-depth research to support business development opportunities
• Supporting proposal team to analyse Invitation to Tender and other client documentation
• Providing additional analysis, reports and support for business development team as required
• Working collaboratively with Data & Analytics team on big data projects
• Monitoring traditional and social media for tender opportunities, competitor updates and related events using a variety of inputs and tools
• Compiling regular reports, analysing and summarising important articles
• Assisting internal teams to develop presentations for client meetings
• Developing a deep understanding of First Bus operations and commercial activities while monitoring regional developments and industry trends

What We're Looking For:

Essentials

• Strong writing and editing skills
• Ability to distil complex concepts into clear, compelling summaries and briefings
• Confident using data and undertaking research
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to actively build positive relationships across diverse teams
• Eager to learn, innovate, and contribute to a high-performing team
• Bachelor's degree (Level 6)

Desirables

• Experience within the transport, mobility, or infrastructure sectors.
• Knowledge of GIS, data visualisation, or business intelligence tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or Google Analytics).
• Experience conducting competitor benchmarking and SWOT analysis.
• Master's degree (Level 7 or higher)

Rewards & Benefits

• Competitive Salary + Bonus
• Flexible working
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
• Working at First you will receive a Free bus pass for you and your family after 6 months services as well as discounted train travel
• Cycle to work scheme
• Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support

Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.

Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.