Virgin On Board Manager's Job

[Dodge-Slant-6]

Hello,

Recently I saw a job advert from Virgin for an On Board Manager's position. Despite the implications of the title, I read on this forum that the job is actually office based in a depot and not on-board a train. Is that true?

Is there any chance of an external candidate actually getting this job, or does Virgin mostly fill such positions via promotions from within the existing staff?

If it is worth my while to apply, what do they specifically look for in a candidate in order for that person to be shortlisted for interview?

What are some of the duties (good and bad) of this job that the advert doesn't mention?

By the way, is Virgin a good company to work for?

Thanks!

 

[craigybagel]

Hello,

Recently I saw a job advert from Virgin for an On Board Manager's position. Despite the implications of the title, I read on this forum that the job is actually office based in a depot and not on-board a train. Is that true?

Yes its true. OBM is more like a Guards Manager at other companies, although as well as being responsible for TMs they are also responsible for catering staff. They are qualified guards though, so they do have to work trains occasionally to retain competency. When I was at Virgin there were 4 or 5 OBMs at my depot responsible for about 200 catering staff and 50 TMs between them.

Is there any chance of an external candidate actually getting this job, or does Virgin mostly fill such positions via promotions from within the existing staff?

What have you got to lose? If no externals apply, it will definitely go internally!

By the way, is Virgin a good company to work for?

Thanks!

I found them a great company to work for. They look after you, and morale is pretty high. That said, the turnover rates for OBMs do seem to be very high. And its very hard to be popular as a manager.