As a UK career coach with over 25 years of experience, I’ve guided countless professionals to success — and if you’re interviewing for the London Sovereign (RATP Group) Operations Manager role, you’re aiming for one of the most pivotal positions in London’s transport sector. This role ensures smooth bus operations, safe and timely services, efficient resource allocation, and high standards of customer service across the network. As part of RATP Group, you’ll be influencing daily transport for thousands of passengers, managing teams of drivers, and working closely with stakeholders to deliver operational excellence.
In London, Operations Managers in the bus transport sector typically earn between £45,000 – £55,000 per year, with opportunities for performance bonuses and career progression into senior management. With such responsibility and reward comes the need to impress in your interview — so let’s dive into the 25 interview questions you’re most likely to face, complete with model answers and guidance.
Simple opening interview questions and answers
1. Tell us about yourself.
Answer: “I have over 10 years’ experience in transport operations, leading large teams and managing performance targets. I’m passionate about delivering safe, efficient, and customer-focused services. I’m particularly drawn to London Sovereign’s reputation for excellence and its commitment to community service.”
2. Why do you want to work for London Sovereign (RATP Group)?
Answer: “London Sovereign’s integration within RATP Group offers the perfect blend of local community focus and global best practices. I value its emphasis on safety, punctuality, and innovation in public transport, and I’m keen to contribute to that success.”
3. What do you know about our operations?
Answer: “You operate several key routes in North West London, with a fleet focused on reliability and sustainability, including hybrid and electric buses. You prioritise driver welfare, passenger satisfaction, and compliance with TfL standards.”
Competency-based interview questions and answers (using STAR model)
4. Describe a time you dealt with an unexpected operational issue.
STAR Answer: “In my previous role, a major road closure caused severe delays (Situation). I quickly assessed alternative routes and redeployed vehicles (Task). I coordinated with traffic control and kept drivers and passengers informed (Action). The service impact was reduced by 50% compared to initial projections (Result).”
5. Give an example of how you improved team performance.
STAR Answer: “Our on-time performance was below target (Situation). I implemented a driver mentoring programme and performance dashboards (Task). I worked with drivers individually to identify challenges (Action). Within three months, punctuality improved by 15% (Result).”
6. Tell me about a time you had to handle a customer complaint.
STAR Answer: “A passenger reported repeated missed services on their route (Situation). I investigated timetables and vehicle allocation (Task). I adjusted scheduling and ensured better driver coverage (Action). The passenger later wrote to thank us for the improvement (Result).”
7. Describe a challenging staffing issue you resolved.
STAR Answer: “A sudden flu outbreak left us short of drivers (Situation). I quickly arranged voluntary overtime and brought in relief staff (Task). I maintained communication to keep morale high (Action). Services continued with minimal cancellations (Result).”
8. How do you ensure health and safety compliance?
STAR Answer: “I maintain up-to-date training for all staff, conduct regular audits, and ensure swift action on any non-compliance. I also encourage open reporting of near-miss incidents to prevent future risks.”
9. Give an example of using data to make operational improvements.
STAR Answer: “I analysed GPS tracking data (Situation) and identified delays caused by dwell times (Task). By adjusting layover points (Action), I improved timetable adherence by 12% (Result).”
Role-specific and scenario-based questions
10. How would you handle multiple breakdowns during peak hours?
Answer: “I’d prioritise safety first, deploy spare vehicles where possible, and communicate clearly with drivers, depot staff, and passengers. I’d then review the incident to prevent recurrence.”
11. What’s your approach to driver recruitment and retention?
Answer: “I focus on thorough onboarding, regular recognition, and creating development opportunities. Happy, valued drivers deliver better service and stay longer.”
12. How would you handle union negotiations?
Answer: “With respect, transparency, and a focus on shared goals. Building trust is key, and I’d prepare well to ensure solutions are fair and sustainable.”
13. How do you manage budget constraints?
Answer: “By prioritising spending that impacts safety and service quality, while finding efficiency gains in scheduling, fuel use, and maintenance planning.”
14. What steps would you take to meet TfL performance targets?
Answer: “I’d monitor KPIs daily, engage with drivers on feedback, and quickly address recurring performance issues through coaching and process changes.”
15. How would you implement new transport technology?
Answer: “By providing thorough training, involving staff early in trials, and ensuring benefits are clearly communicated to both drivers and passengers.”
Behavioural and leadership questions
16. How do you motivate underperforming staff?
Answer: “Through clear expectations, supportive coaching, and recognising small improvements to build confidence.”
17. Describe your leadership style.
Answer: “I’m a collaborative leader who sets clear standards but empowers my team to take ownership.”
18. How do you handle conflict between staff?
Answer: “By listening to both sides, finding common ground, and focusing on solutions that maintain team harmony.”
19. Tell us about a time you delivered change successfully.
Answer: “I led a depot reorganisation that improved workflow without increasing costs, by engaging staff in the redesign process from day one.”
20. How do you ensure inclusivity in the workplace?
Answer: “By actively promoting diversity in recruitment, offering cultural awareness training, and celebrating different perspectives.”
Ending questions you might be asked
21. Where do you see yourself in five years?
Answer: “I see myself growing within RATP Group, potentially in a senior operations leadership role, continuing to improve London’s bus services.”
22. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer: “Yes — how does London Sovereign measure operational success beyond TfL KPIs, and what are your key priorities for the next 12 months?”
23. What would your previous team say about you?
Answer: “They’d say I’m fair, approachable, and committed to helping them succeed.”
24. How do you deal with pressure?
Answer: “By staying calm, prioritising tasks, and drawing on my experience to make timely decisions.”
25. What motivates you in your work?
Answer: “Delivering a reliable service that keeps London moving and makes a positive impact on people’s daily lives.”
Interview Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
Research London Sovereign’s routes, fleet, and performance.
Use the STAR method to structure competency answers.
Dress professionally and arrive early.
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company.
Don’ts:
Speak negatively about past employers.
Give vague answers without examples.
Forget to relate your experience to the Operations Manager role.
Final encouragement and coaching tips from Jerry Frempong
An Operations Manager interview at London Sovereign (RATP Group) is your chance to showcase leadership, operational expertise, and dedication to customer service. Remember — they’re looking for someone who can lead teams under pressure, deliver consistent performance, and embrace innovation. Use real examples, speak with confidence, and keep answers focused on results.
Believe in your ability to succeed. You’ve been invited to the interview because your skills match their needs. Now it’s about proving that you’re the right cultural and operational fit.
If you want to go beyond preparation and into mastery, I offer one-to-one interview coaching sessions tailored for London Sovereign (RATP Group) Operations Manager candidates. Together, we’ll rehearse real scenarios, refine your STAR stories, and boost your confidence so you walk into that interview ready to win the role.
