Director of Transport - Strategy and Policy

As our Director of Transport Strategy you will lead the work of the Transport Strategy and Policy team to develop, prioritise and deliver a shared transport strategy for South Yorkshire, including policies and approaches by mode (bus, rail, tram and walking, wheeling and cycling) and thematic priorities. Policy areas include decarbonisation, integrated ticketing and fares, integrated networks, accessibility and the development of transport hubs. In the role you will be given the opportunity shape our shared transport future for South Yorkshire.
The role will involve significant partnership working, as well as an appreciation of how transport sits within the South Yorkshire region's overall economic, social and environmental programmes. The post holder will be a key interface with the Mayor, Council Leaders, the Active Travel Commissioner for South Yorkshire and senior leaders in DfT and colleagues both inside and beyond the organisation. You will seek to ensure the region speaks with one powerful voice and that key decision makers in Government, the investment community and others outside the region understand, support and act on our priorities.
Our plans are ambitious and we are therefore looking for ambitious leaders who are keen to make a real difference to our local communities. This is an opportunity to make a genuine lasting impact on transport and travel on the local, regional and national stage. This is an opportune time to further develop an integrated transport network as the Supertram operations have been brought back into public control and we are exploring options on bus franchising.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
We would love to hear from those that have the following:
A strong background in developing and implementing Transport Strategy and Policy and experience of influencing senior colleagues, Board Members, and/or politicians. You will have a practical understanding of transport analysis, appraisal and business case development; behavioural insight, and experience of working in the bus, rail or tram industry. You will have a proven track record of effective senior leadership, strategic thinking and change management, including supporting the empowerment of others to take ownership and accountability of outcomes. The role needs both first class strategic transport thinking and an understanding of the practical realities of real world delivery. You will be responsible for the development of a transformational Local Transport Plan (LTP) for South Yorkshire.
With your proven ability of leadership at senior level you will work in a collaborative manner with the Mayor, elected Members, senior leaders across directorates and local authority colleagues, external partners, community members and other bodies that interact with this role.
The role will also be expected to contribute to the growth and redesign of the team for the medium to long-term, ensuring we have the required capacity and capability to secure delivery of our ambitions.

The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) brings together the local authorities of Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield and to serve the communities and businesses of South Yorkshire. From transport to housing, from business growth to skills, the MCA has a great story to tell. We have ambitions to deliver recovery and renewal for people, businesses and places across South Yorkshire. A strong public transport network supports good economic and inclusive growth.
Please note that SYMCA follows a structured salary grading system for all roles, and the offered salary for each post will be at the starting point within the specified grade. We value the skills and experience of potential candidates, and there will be opportunities for salary enhancements as you grow within South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.
South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is currently in the process of reviewing its terms and conditions of employment including pay and grading. As part of this project, the post advertised may be subject to changes in the near future. All changes and any impact on individual posts will be discussed further should you be successfully appointed to the position you have applied for.

All colleagues have access to a local Government Pension Scheme and the chance to be part of an organisation where you can really make a difference. Located in Sheffield City Centre, we are well-placed for transport links and encourage employees to take advantage of the active travel facilities. Work/life balance is extremely important to us here at SYMCA with our recognised family/friendly policies, genuine work flexibility, recognition, and shared success.
In addition to the above, some of benefits include -
Annual Leave Purchase Scheme - The ability to purchase up to a further 15 days per year in additional to your normal annual leave.
Hybrid working - Our offices are a space where we come together and collaborate. Most of our roles are offered on a hybrid basis with the exception of some support roles being onsite full time.
Rewarding You - Reducing everyday expenses through discounts, benefits, financial advice, wellbeing solutions and more with Reward Gateway!
Training on the job - Support with upskilling skills through on the job training and qualifications
Holiday - Up to 36 days annual leave (depending on length of service). Pro-rata for part time colleagues.
Diversity at South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Authority
Our workforce is made up of a diverse community, where we all belong and feel part of something bigger. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief. We will consider flexible working requests for all roles unless operational requirements prevent otherwise.