Step Into a Role of Influence and Purpose – Become a General Manager with First Bus London

Do you have a strong background in the bus industry, a commitment to operational excellence, and a passion for empowering teams to deliver exceptional service? 

First Bus London is seeking confident individuals from diverse backgrounds to step into the role of General Manager across several of our London locations. This is your opportunity to bring your experience and insight to a role where your guidance will shape performance, culture, and service for the future.

About the Role

As a General Manager, you'll take responsibility for the strategic direction and operational success of one or more London depots. Your focus will be on creating a positive environment where people feel supported, standards remain high, and services are delivered with care and precision.

This is a pivotal role in which you'll offer thoughtful guidance, encourage collaboration, and become a trusted presence across our teams and with partners such as Transport for London (TfL). You'll work closely with the senior team, providing steady and values-driven influence within the business.

What You'll Be Doing

• Shape and support strategic direction in partnership with Directors and Senior Managers.
• Oversee financial performance including budgeting, forecasting, and cost management.
• Ensure safe, reliable, and high-quality operations that meet TfL's expectations and contractual obligations.
• Foster strong working relationships with union partners, managing discussions with empathy and confidence.
• Nurture and uplift operational managers, helping them grow through encouragement, development, and accountability.
• Act as a key representative of First Bus London in external forums, helping to voice our purpose and progress.
• Champion a strong culture of health, safety, and compliance across teams and locations.
• Encourage continuous improvement and innovation by asking the right questions and welcoming new ideas.

Who We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who brings a grounded, confident presence alongside Substantial experience in the bus industry at a senior operational level, preferably in London's regulated market. You will have a strong understanding of TfL operations, policies, and stakeholder relationships, with a CPC in Passenger Transport & Road Haulage.

Naturally, you will have a proven track record of managing unionised environments and creating positive culture change. Coupled with solid financial and commercial skills.

You will have a gift for bringing out the best in others through collaboration, trust, and clear expectations, with the resilience, curiosity, and a calm approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

Your Experience & Qualifications

• BTEC Higher National Diploma, Diploma of Higher Education, or equivalent.
• Additional qualifications in management or transport are welcome.

Why Join First Bus London?

• Make a meaningful difference in a high-profile environment with real community impact.
• Be part of a supportive organisation that values empathy, inclusion, and integrity.
• Remuneration that honours your skills, dedication, and expertise and associated benefits package.
• Access clear pathways for growth across one of the UK's leading transport networks.
• Work in a role where your influence uplifts others – passengers, partners, and teams alike.

If you're ready to step into a role where your insight, care, and direction can shape the future of London's transport, we'd love to meet you.