Caledonian Sleeper is the collective name for overnight sleeper train services between London and Scotland. With roots dating back to 1873, the service has evolved through many operators and transitions over the years.
In June 2023, the service was taken into public ownership and is now being run by Caledonian Sleeper Limited a subsidiary of Scottish Rail Holdings, an arm’s length company owned and controlled by the Scottish Government. This new arrangement replaces the previous franchise, operated by Serco.
We are now seeking a Managing Director to lead Caledonian Sleeper Limited through the next phase of its journey. This is a high-profile, strategic, and hands-on leadership role. The Managing Director is fully accountable for the company’s performance, ensuring delivery against the outcomes set out in the grant agreement, while contributing to the broader goals of Scotland’s transport policy. The role requires an innovative, commercially focused leader with a strong track record of delivering service excellence and transformational change within complex stakeholder environments.
You will guide the organisation towards market growth, operational excellence, and enhanced guest experiences, overseeing daily operations while fostering a culture of safety, collaboration and high performance.
With proven experience in delivering transformational guest experiences and substantial senior management experience within either the transport, hospitality, or service industries, the successful candidate will demonstrate a strong leadership track record, extensive expertise in managing and motivating teams, and the ability to influence and drive positive change to achieve high-quality outcomes.
Whilst prior railway experience or experience within a public or private sector environment is not essential, the successful candidate must demonstrate a proactive, entrepreneurial mindset, coupled with a strong sense of curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning.
If you are excited by the opportunity to generate significant value to the Scottish economy via increased tourism, we would love to hear from you. Please apply or contact our retained advisor, Douglas Adam at douglasadam@livingstonjames.com, for a confidential discussion.
Any direct applications or third-party introductions to Caledonian Sleeper will be forwarded to Livingston James for consideration.
Caledonian Sleeper is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status or pregnancy and maternity.