About First Bus:

Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.

We have a fantastic opportunity for a Staff Manager to join our Bristol (Lawrence Hill) depot on a full-time permanent basis.

The successful candidate will support and deputise for the Operations Manager to manage all aspects of operational performance including on time performance, delivering excellent customer experience, while managing a governance agenda that supports legislative, process and policy compliance, within the operational excellence framework.

You will engage front line colleagues though effective communication, active listening and recognition Work within and embed the divisional governance framework set by the Operations Steering Group, ensuring that the operational excellence policies and procedures are adopted within the depot.

Key Responsibilities

• Management of the depot operations team in accordance with FirstGroup policies, standard operating procedures and all relevant legislation
• Work with the Training function to ensure that operational teams are competently trained, and to achieve agreed establishment requirements
• Manage driver performance and carry out job chats
• Support the induction and development of an engaged, talented and high performing operations team, nurturing an innovative and continuous improvement culture
• Conduct any disciplinary, grievance or absence management reviews in accordance with Company policy
• Maintain accurate records for all aspects of operational standards and performance, including maintenance of employee records
• Work alongside service performance team members, fostering excellent working relationships between drivers and Supervisors to ensure a consistent customer experience •
• Improve operational performance in a sustainable manner, with a key focus on improving lost miles and punctuality, resulting in delivery of agreed key performance indicators •
• Manage supervisors to create alternative disruption plans; liaising with and providing information to all relevant colleagues
• Liaise with external stakeholders and attend relevant meetings to improve service performance
• Local custodian and point of contact of escalation for maintenance of fault diagnosis of all on time performance and other service performance business systems
• Ensure collaboration between operational and engineering team members, fostering excellent working relationships between drivers and Supervisors to ensure a consistent customer experience
• Deliver agreed performance improvement plans and operational costs within budget
• Comply with requisition to pay procedures and delegated authorities
• Ensure an effective working relationship with recognised trade union representatives and officials
• Other duties commensurate with the role as may be deemed appropriate by the line manager

Skills/Experience

• Previous management or supervisory experience (within the bus/transport industry preferred, but not essential).
• Excellent computer skills
• Professional knowledge of Road Traffic Act and Employment legislation
• Ability to lead and inspire people to seek and follow operational best practice.
• Knowledge of employment legislation
• Excellent planning and prioritising skills
• Self-motivated with a positive approach to change
• Excellent customer focus

Rewards

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
• We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
• Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
• Cycle to work scheme
• 25 days' holiday + bank holidays
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
• Enhanced maternity / paternity pay
• Flexible working

Equal Opportunities

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.