The Operational Leadership for Traincrew Managers programme has officially launched this week in London, marking a significant step forward in strengthening leadership capability across traincrew management in the UK rail industry.
Led by the Rail Delivery Group, the programme has been developed to support the evolving demands placed on traincrew leaders, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to manage people, performance and industrial relations within a safety-critical, unionised environment.
The programme is designed for Area Driver Managers, Driver Managers, Depot Managers and aspiring operational leaders, providing practical development that reflects the realities of modern traincrew management.
Participants engage in a highly applied learning experience that blends real case studies, practical simulations and facilitated discussion, enabling them to build capability they can use immediately in their roles.
Throughout the course, participants will develop the ability to:
Apply TOC Conditions of Service and working agreements with confidence
Manage rostering, depot and link structures, availability and competence
Navigate union structures and build constructive working relationships
Consult, negotiate and assess business impacts during industrial discussions
Manage statutory flexible working requests within legal frameworks
The programme has been developed in collaboration with industry partners and is endorsed by the Chartered Institution of Railway Operators, helping to ensure the content reflects recognised good practice in operational leadership and people management. CIRO supported the programme’s early development and pilot phase, contributing operational insight to help shape learning content that reflects real-world challenges faced by traincrew managers across the industry.
The importance of this investment in traincrew leadership has also been highlighted by Chris Jackson, Managing Director of TransPennine Express and Chair of the Traincrew Board, who said:
“For too long we haven’t sufficiently invested in the development of our Traincrew Leaders. This has to change. This programme will support the current and future cohort of leaders so that they feel confident in managing relationships, utilisation, efficiency and performance. This course, with its blend of in-person and virtual training, will develop our capability to face into the challenges and opportunities of the future.”
As the rail industry continues to evolve, effective traincrew leadership is critical to maintaining safety, performance and workforce resilience. This programme plays an important role in supporting consistent, high-quality leadership capability across organisations, helping managers lead with clarity, empathy and confidence.
By strengthening core skills in operational leadership, industrial relations and workforce management, the programme supports better outcomes for employees, operators and customers alike.
The Operational Leadership for Traincrew Managers programme is delivered by the Rail Delivery Group, who are managing recruitment and future cohorts.
To find out more about the programme or to register your interest in joining a future cohort, please contact Rail Delivery Group directly at traincrewprogramme@raildeliverygroup.com
