Operations Manager

Position Overview

The Operations Manager provides professional leadership and technical oversight across all main line and non-main line driving operations, ground staff activities, and depot control functions. The role ensures safe, efficient, and compliant execution of operational activities while promoting best practices and continuous improvement. Key responsibilities include monitoring compliance and competence, investigating incidents, developing operational staff, and supporting long-term planning and resource deployment.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Lead and manage teams of main line and non-main line train drivers and ground staff to ensure safe and efficient rail operations.
• Oversee technical and operational reviews of core functional areas, including train set efficiency, wagon management, loading operations, and depot procedures.
• Implement and execute service delivery documentation, including train timetables, driver rosters, shunting plans, and location-specific instructions.
• Ensure that only staff who are competent and certified for the respective duties are rostered to perform them.
• Manage staff competence in line with the company’s Competence Management System, including conducting assessments, evaluations, and development plans.
• Safeguard the correct application of Competence Management System procedures and proactively address any gaps or inconsistencies.
• Provide technical and operational support to other departments and functional leads as required.
• Collaborate with the Network Operations Control Centre (NOCC), customer operations teams, and terminal managers to ensure effective coordination of train movements and resources.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting of operational performance, incidents, and safety issues.
• Promote and implement industry best practices across the operational function.
• Deliver operational safety briefings, toolbox talks, and refresher training to operational teams.
• Maintain personal operational competence in train driving, ground operations, rail vehicle loading standards, and basic signaling regulations in line with the respective C-Specs for the roles.
• Ensure that all operational staff maintain the required certifications and competencies in alignment with company policies and regulatory standards.
• Undertake risk assessments and ensure implementation of safe systems of work for all operational activities.
• Act as Rail Incident Officer (RIO) and Train Operations Liaison Officer (TOLO) when required, supporting emergency and incident response.
• Support the implementation and continuous improvement of the Competence Management System and Safety Management System.

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience

Academic Qualifications:

• Educated to a high standard.

Professional Qualifications:

• Full UAE driving license or transferable equivalent.
• In-depth knowledge of:
• Railway discipline-based standards.
• European Train Control System (ETCS).
• Electronically Controlled Pneumatic (ECP) braking systems.
• Competence Management Systems.

Experience:

• Operational competence in driving freight and/or passenger trains - This is mandatory
• Practical experience in:
• Ground staff duties and loading operations.
• Incident response and Rail Incident Officer responsibilities.
• Risk assessments and safe work planning.
• Basic signalling principles and regulations.

Other Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficient in MS Office and operational systems.
• Strong analytical, planning, and organizational skills.
• Report writing and data interpretation capabilities.
• Good physical and medical fitness, including the ability to pass mandatory psychometric assessments.
• Familiarity with diesel-electric traction systems.