Head of Engineering Job at Arriva London South Limited (Croydon, Surrey)

Head of Engineering

Arriva London South Limited

Location:
United Kingdom , Croydon, Surrey

Category:
Logistics

Contract Type:
Not provided

Salary:

90000.00 GBP / Year

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Job Description:

At Arriva London, we’re looking for an exceptional Head of Engineering to lead from the front—driving operational excellence, shaping engineering strategy, and delivering high-performing, future-ready fleet services across our South London operations. This is a pivotal leadership role where you’ll influence business performance at scale, champion innovation (including Zero Emission Vehicle rollout), and develop high-performing teams to deliver safe, reliable, and cost-effective engineering solutions.

Job Responsibility:

Lead engineering performance to improve KPIs and deliver strong P&L outcomes
Partner with the Head of Operations to ensure seamless technical delivery and service reliability
Act as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for engineering, leading supplier and OEM service review meetings
Drive data-led improvement campaigns, delivering measurable recovery plans and performance glidepaths
Provide leadership and direction to Engineering Managers and Team Leaders, developing capability across the function
Oversee compliance with engineering standards, including auditing and process confirmations
Take ownership of Lean initiatives, technical campaigns, and continuous improvement programmes
Lead the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) rollout, including lifecycle cost modelling and performance tracking
Manage engineering budgets, forecasts, and cost performance—ensuring accountability and value delivery
Collaborate with internal stakeholders (Procurement, HR, Finance) to enhance frontline garage performance
Deliver shared engineering capabilities (e.g. Body Shops, Engine Shops, Training Academy)
Build and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including regulators and suppliers
Deputise for the Engineering Director as required

Requirements:

IOSH qualified
Transport Manager CPC (or working towards)
Strong understanding of P&L management, budgeting, and forecasting
In-depth knowledge of fleet strategy and lifecycle costing
Proven experience with engineering KPIs, compliance standards, and regulatory frameworks (e.g. DVSA, TfL)
Solid grounding in health & safety and ISO/BSI standards
Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capability
Confident communicator with the ability to influence at all levels
Experienced in leading data-driven performance improvements
Strong stakeholder management across internal and external partners
Experience operating within the Transport for London framework
A background in vehicle maintenance and DVSA standards
Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets and performance targets
The ability to motivate, challenge, and develop teams to deliver sustained performance improvements
Experience working collaboratively with Trade Union representatives
A mindset focused on innovation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence

Additional Information:

Job Posted:
March 25, 2026

Employment Type:

Fulltime

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