The Transport Salaried Staff’s Association (TSSA) is set to ballot operations managers at TransPennine Express over potential industrial action, following a dispute regarding pay and compensatory arrangements. The union has expressed dissatisfaction with a proposed pay offer covering on-call duties, overtime, and time off for driver managers, operational development managers, and driver operations managers.

TSSA general secretary Maryam Eslamdoust emphasised that industrial action would be a last resort. She said: “Our members work extremely hard to keep rail services running safely and efficiently. Their commitment often means giving up family and personal time, taking on additional responsibilities, and adapting to challenging conditions, efforts that deserve fair recognition and reward. We remain ready to work constructively with TransPennine Express to reach a fair resolution that reflects the dedication of our members and helps avoid any disruption for passengers.”

The ballot will open on 21 October and run until 11 November, after members unanimously rejected the latest offer from the rail operator. If approved, the action could include strike action or other forms of industrial action short of a strike, potentially affecting TransPennine Express services across its network.

Rob Cox, operations director for TransPennine Express, said the company was “disappointed to receive notification from TSSA of their intention to ballot 34 managers for industrial action” and stressed that the firm had put forward a package enhancing both pay and compensatory leave arrangements. He added: “Our aim is to recognise the vital contributions of our colleagues while balancing the financial realities facing the rail industry.”

Image: TransPennine Express