IT Lead Project Manager

Abellio East Midlands Ltd.; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 51,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading railway company in the East Midlands is seeking a skilled Lead IT Project Manager to drive digital transformation across its operations. This role involves managing complex IT projects, ensuring compliance and risk governance, and collaborating with various stakeholders to maximize project success. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, relevant project management qualifications, and experience with cloud platforms. This position offers a competitive salary and a rewarding work environment that values diversity and innovation.

Benefits

Free travel on EMR services

75% discount on all other train operators

Competitive salary and benefits

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing complex IT projects in regulated environments.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Strategic thinker with a focus on IT innovation and continuous improvement.
• Experience with cloud platforms and digital transformation initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver IT and digital transformation projects across the business.
• Manage project governance, compliance, and risk, including cybersecurity and regulatory requirements.
• Develop technology-driven business cases for programme boards.
• Plan and manage IT resources, vendors, and third-party providers.
• Drive adoption of cloud solutions and digital tools to improve performance.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Cybersecurity knowledge

Budget management

Communication skills

Education

Degree-level education or equivalent experience

Recognised Project Management qualification (APM PMQ, PRINCE2, PMP, or equivalent)

Tools

Cloud platforms

Enterprise IT systems

Job description

IT Lead Project Manager

IT

Location : Derby - Head Office

Contract Type : Permanent

Salary :

Circa £60,000 depending on experience

Free travel on EMR services and 75% discount on all other train operators

Closing Date :

Wednesday 17 December 2025

Interview Date : To be confirmed

Reference : 2025-141

Join One Team at East Midlands Railway - Drive Digital Transformation

At East Midlands Railway (EMR), we're proud to be One Team . Every day, our people keep passengers safe, deliver exceptional service, and put customers at the heart of a sustainable railway for the East Midlands. With over 2,600 employees, it's our people-and teams like IT-that make our success possible.

Why EMR?

• Nine-time Top Employer and Gold Accredited for Inclusive Employers Standards
• A culture that empowers you to bring your authentic self to work
• Opportunities to shape a digital-first future for the railway

The Role - Lead IT Project Manager

Are you an experienced IT Project Manager ready to take the next step? Do you thrive on leading complex technology projects that transform business operations and enhance the customer experience? This is your opportunity to lead digital transformation at EMR , delivering medium-to-high complexity IT projects that align with our long‑term strategy.

What You’ll Do :

• Lead and deliver IT and digital transformation projects across the business
• Manage project governance, compliance, and risk, including cybersecurity and regulatory requirements
• Develop technology‑driven business cases for programme boards
• Plan and manage IT resources, vendors, and third‑party providers
• Drive adoption of cloud solutions and digital tools to improve performance
• Oversee IT budgets and ensure effective financial management
• Collaborate with stakeholders across IT, data, and business teams to maximise project success
• Support IT change management to ensure smooth adoption of new solutions
• Deputise for the Programme Manager when needed

What We’re Looking For :

• Proven experience managing complex IT projects in regulated environments
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Degree-level education or equivalent experience
• Recognised Project Management qualification (APM PMQ, PRINCE2, PMP, or equivalent)
• Strategic thinker with a focus on IT innovation and continuous improvement
• Experience with cloud platforms, enterprise IT systems, and digital transformation initiatives
• Excellent stakeholder management, negotiation, and communication skills
• Expertise in IT budgeting, vendor management, and cost control
• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices, IT compliance, and risk management

Why You’ll Love Working Here :

Technology is at the heart of shaping the future of rail. As a Lead IT Project Manager at EMR, you'll have the opportunity to deliver high‑impact digital solutions , enhance passenger experiences, improve operational efficiency, and build business resilience. We offer a competitive salary, great benefits, and a dynamic, forward‑thinking environment .

Diversity and Inclusion

We're committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. Women and ethnic minority groups are underrepresented in our sector, so we actively encourage applications from candidates who identify with these groups to help us create a more inclusive EMR.