About First Bus:
Are you ready to advance your career with one of the UK's leading bus operators? Join a forward-thinking company that embraces cutting-edge bus technology, from innovative mobile apps to environmentally friendly vehicles. We are passionate about delivering passenger journeys that are sustainable, comfortable, and efficient. We are at the forefront of innovation in the industry, connecting communities and shaping the future of public transport.
Location: York or Aberdeen based (with regular travel)
About the Role
We’re looking for a commercially driven and analytical Commercial Manager to join our Regional Bus team.
This is a fantastic opportunity to drive commercial performance and customer proposition within Regional Bus at a defined market level, translating strategy into tangible commercial results. The Commercial Manager contributes to commercial plans, leading the delivery of these within local markets.
Reporting to the Head of Commercial, the role owns day-to-day commercial execution, working closely with Service Delivery teams, Network colleagues and Centres of Excellence to improve revenue, passenger volumes and route performance.
What You’ll Be Doing
Driving Commercial Performance
Own and manage performance across routes, depots, or corridors—focusing on revenue, passenger volumes, and yield
Analyse trends, identify risks and opportunities, and lead performance reviews
Deliver targeted commercial interventions to improve results
Provide accurate inputs into budgets and forecasts
Identify new revenue opportunities across markets and partnerships
Delivering Market Plans
Lead the delivery of local market plans and ensure measurable results
Work with specialist teams to implement initiatives and overcome challenges
Manage and evaluate trials and pilots to grow demand and revenue
Supporting Network & Pricing Strategy
Collaborate with Network Planning teams on route performance and optimisation
Implement local pricing and ticketing initiatives
Help shape and communicate customer propositions using insight and data
Stakeholder & Operational Collaboration
Act as a key commercial partner to Service Delivery teams
Support delivery of partnership schemes, bids, and contract renewals
Represent the business in discussions with local stakeholders and authorities
Governance & Best Practice
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking someone who combines commercial awareness with strong analytical thinking and stakeholder collaboration skills.
You’ll bring:
Proven experience in a commercial, analytical, or performance-focused role within a large-complex organisation
Strong data analysis and interpretation skills
Experience supporting budgets, forecasts, or reporting
Ability to influence and collaborate across teams
Strong organisational skills and confidence to challenge and escalate when needed
Rewards
Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
• We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
• Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
• Cycle to work scheme
• 25 days' holiday + bank holidays
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
• Enhanced maternity / paternity pay
• Flexible working
Equal Opportunities
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 so many benefits to our customers, communities, and people. We welcome applications from all.
