Currently looking to recruit a Competency Development Manager (Driver) for Brighton Train Crew Depot

This role is suitable for qualified train drivers with a minimum of four years' driving experience on the mainline railway network. This does not include driving experience on Metro, light rail or preserved railways.

About the role:-

We have re-evaluated how we can best support our drivers' competency management here at Southern and Gatwick Express. As part of this, the role of Competency Development Manager has been completely re-scoped. This is a key role, suitable for ambitious, qualified drivers looking to develop careers supporting colleagues within management, in which you will be given a free hand to develop your team of drivers by being accountable for their performance throughout assessment cycles. Within no time, you'll be confident knowing the ability, experience and competency of all of the drivers within your team, and through effective time management you will prioritise support appropriately depending on every driver's needs. You will create development plans for drivers requiring additional support, and undertake competency investigations following operational incidents, with the aim to ensure the maximum number of safe, engaged drivers are available to the business for service delivery.

There is no-on call commitment associated with this role. You will be free to plan your working week to achieve the outcomes needed for engaging competency development, working with your Regional Competency Manager and local depot colleagues. Much of your time will be spent on our railway, in driving cabs and travelling to diverse locations. You will have time to engage in continuous personal development activity, which we will support you with through training and opportunities. The high level of personal flexibility within this role supports our company ambitions to employ a diverse workforce. However, at specific agreed times of the year, you will be expected to be available to drive trains for complete shifts to support provision of reliable passenger services. In addition, this role is not suitable for remote home working due to the need for drivers and colleagues to see their CDMs within the working environment.

The experience we are looking for is:-

• This role is suitable for qualified train drivers with a minimum of four years' driving experience on the mainline railway network. This does not include driving experience on Metro, light rail or preserved railways.
• Applicants will need to demonstrate a strong safety record, and determination of suitability for this role from a competency perspective will be determined by the professional Head of Operational Standards.
• Knowledge of Electrostar fleets and valid route competency on the Southern network is highly advantageous.
• Existing competency as an A1 assessor is highly advantageous, although training may be provided to support early attainment of the qualification for suitable candidates

What's in it for you:-

• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays 
• Healthcare 
• Free travel on GTR and sister groups for you and your family 
• 75% off travel on other train operating companies for you, and leisure for your family 
• Discounted Oyster Card 
• Family-friendly policies, including maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental leave
• Access to StarHub – our employee benefits platform offering discounts with a wide range of retailers and services
• Career development and progression opportunities across the UK's largest rail networks
• The opportunity to make a real difference to millions of customer journeys every year.

Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.