Retail Technology Relationship Manager

Northern Trains Limited; York and North Yorkshire; Hybrid; GBP 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free travel

Pension scheme

Family benefits

Cycle to work

Discounts

Employee assistance programme

Training and career development

Recognition programs

Job summary

Northern Trains Limited is seeking a Retail Technology Relationship Manager in York. This hybrid role focuses on providing technical leadership across our ticketing, retailing and PAYG systems, shaping innovative ticketing solutions and ensuring system reliability and compliance to enhance the customer journey.

You will need experience in retail systems management and a degree or equivalent experience. Rail ticketing or PAYG systems experience is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Experience in retail systems management, ideally within rail, aviation, hospitality or a similar industry.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise across retailing, ticketing and PAYG systems.
• Lead technical assurance, testing and implementation of new systems and enhancements.
• Work with suppliers, industry partners and internal teams to deliver effective solutions.
• Ensure systems remain reliable, interoperable and operationally ready.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement, protecting revenue and enhancing the customer experience.

Skills

Retail systems management

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Degree or equivalent experience

Job description

JOB ROLE: Retail Technology Relationship Manager

ROLE TYPE: Hybrid

HOURS: Monday – Friday - 37 Hours

CONTRACT: Permanent

LOCATION: York

Northern – Be Part of Something Bigger

Are you an experienced retail systems professional with a passion for technology, innovation and improving the customer journey? Northern is looking for a Retail Technology Relationship Manager to provide technical leadership across our ticketing, retailing and Pay As You Go (PAYG) systems.

In this role, you’ll play a key part in shaping and delivering innovative ticketing solutions, including smartcards, contactless payments and digital ticketing, ensuring our systems are reliable, compliant and deliver the best possible experience for our customers.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide technical expertise across retailing, ticketing and PAYG systems.
• Lead technical assurance, testing and implementation of new systems and enhancements.
• Work with suppliers, industry partners and internal teams to deliver effective solutions.
• Ensure systems remain reliable, interoperable and operationally ready.
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement, protecting revenue and enhancing the customer experience.

What we’re looking for:

You’ll have experience in retail systems management, ideally within rail, aviation, hospitality or a similar industry. You’ll bring strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities, and a keen eye for detail.

A degree or equivalent experience is essential. Experience in rail ticketing, smartcard technology or PAYG systems would be an advantage.

Ready to make a difference?

Join Northern and help shape the future of rail retailing through technology, innovation and continuous improvement.

What’s in it for you?

At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.
• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.
• Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.
• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.
• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.
• Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.
• Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern?

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, beginning a journey that would transform travel across the world. We’ve recently celebrated 200 years of the modern railway and, as we reflect on that legacy, our focus is now on the future as Great British Rail takes shape. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.

At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B – we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We’re also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.

We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.

No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.