Project Manager

Project Manager – Externally Funded, High-Value Rail Projects
Location: Gateshead

Morson Talent is are searching for an experienced Project Manager for their high-value, politically sensitive rail projects. This is a unique opportunity to manage complex multi-disciplinary projects in the rail sector, ensuring seamless integration with the operational railway while navigating Network Rail governance and compliance processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Delivery: Develop and deliver solutions for externally funded projects (Levels of Control 2, 3 & 4) while ensuring compliance with the GRIP lifecycle.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with Network Rail governance, assurance processes, and the Railways Act.
• Operational Railway Interface: Interpret the Client’s remit and programme, providing clarity on operational railway interface requirements to facilitate timely decision-making.
• Regulatory Compliance: Liaise with Construction Design Management (CDM) clients and other duty holders to ensure project compliance with CDM Regulations.
• Resource Allocation: Support the Network Rail interface to allocate resources and ensure delivery is aligned with Network Rail processes and procedures.
• Project Monitoring: Assist in monitoring project progress against milestones, implementing contingency measures where necessary.
• Risk Management: Monitor and analyse project risks and performance, developing mitigation strategies and refining proposals for successful delivery.
• Stakeholder Relationship Management: Build effective relationships with all stakeholders, manage expectations, and champion the interests of the project.
• Asset and Liability Management: Identify and progress opportunities to reduce asset and maintenance liabilities for Network Rail.
• Cost Recovery: Facilitate the full recovery of Network Rail costs in line with the Legal Agreement with external parties.
• Safety & Compliance: Support the management of accident, incident, and close call events, sharing relevant outputs with client teams.

Essential Criteria:

• Qualifications: Educated to degree level in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience.
• Certifications: Membership (or working towards membership) with the Association for Project Management. PRINCE2 Foundation or equivalent.
• Industry Knowledge: Solid understanding of the operational railway and railway infrastructure.
• Experience: Proven experience in delivering projects within the rail environment.
• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication skills with the ability to build strong relationships across diverse teams.
• Team Player: Collaborative in nature, able to quickly integrate into a team and share acquired knowledge.

Desirable Skills:

• Leadership: Ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams, managing complex and high-value projects.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to identify risks and develop practical solutions.
• Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of Network Rail’s governance processes and the regulatory framework governing the railway industry.