Staff Manager

Company: First Eastern Counties Buses Ltd
Apply for the Staff Manager
Location: Norwich
Job Description:

About First Bus

We are one of the UK’s leading bus operators, advancing public transport with cutting‑edge technology, environmentally friendly vehicles, and a forward‑thinking culture. We are passionate about delivering sustainable, comfortable, and efficient passenger journeys and shaping the future of public transport.

Overview

Staff Manager to support our Norwich & Kings Lynn depots, deputising for the Operations Manager and managing all aspects of depot operational performance, service quality, governance, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage the depot operations team in line with FirstGroup policies, SOPs, and legislation.
  • Collaborate with Training to ensure staff are competently trained and established staffing levels are met.
  • Manage driver performance, conduct job chats, and oversee induction and development of a high‑performing team.
  • Handle disciplinary, grievance, or absence management reviews per company policy.
  • Maintain accurate operational records, including staff details, performance data, and maintenance logs.
  • Work closely with the Service Performance team to foster strong relationships between drivers, supervisors, and customers, ensuring consistent service quality.
  • Improve operational performance sustainably, focusing on lost miles and punctuality to meet agreed KPIs.
  • Develop alternative disruption plans with supervisors and liaise with all relevant colleagues.
  • Represent the depot in external stakeholder meetings and attend relevant sessions to enhance service performance.
  • Serve as the local custodian and escalation point for maintenance, fault diagnosis, and performance systems.
  • Collaborate with engineering and operational teams to establish a cohesive working environment.
  • Deliver agreed performance improvement plans and manage operational costs within budget.
  • Adhere to requisition, pay procedures, and delegated authorities.
  • Maintain an effective relationship with trade union representatives and officials.
  • Carry out any additional duties as deemed appropriate by the line manager.

Skills/Experience

  • Previous management or supervisory experience (bus/transport industry preferred).
  • Excellent computer skills and professional knowledge of the Road Traffic Act and Employment legislation.
  • Able to lead and inspire teams to adopt best operational practices.
  • Strong planning, prioritising, and self‑motivation.
  • Positive approach to change with a strong customer focus.

Rewards & Benefits

  • Simply Health & Smart Health at no cost to you and your dependents, providing cash‑back benefits for optical, dental, virtual GP appointments, mental health support, nutrition, and fitness.
  • 24‑hour, 365‑day mental health support via EAP.
  • Financial wellbeing platform with discounts on high‑street brands and supermarkets.
  • Free bus pass and discounted train travel for you and family after 6 months of service.
  • Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
  • 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
  • Pension scheme with the option to purchase First Group shares at a discount.
  • Enhanced maternity/paternity pay.
  • Flexible working arrangements.

Equal Opportunity

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 many benefits to our customers, communities, and people. We welcome applications from all.

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Posted: July 2nd, 2026