Overview
Lead Strategic Rail Planner
Client: Network Rail
Location: Stratford, London (Hybrid - approx. 50% attendance)
Contract Length: Up to 6 months
Day Rate: Up to £720 per day (see rate guidance below)
IR35 Status: Inside IR35
Security Clearance: BPSS required
Deadline for CVs: Friday 8th May (4:00pm)
Interview Process: 1-stage (Teams)
The Opportunity
Network Rail is seeking an experienced Lead Strategic Rail Planner to take ownership of a high-profile mainline route study, supporting early-stage development and long-term strategic rail planning.
This is a rail strategic planning role - not delivery or project planning. You will act as the intelligent client, leading and integrating multiple technical disciplines to shape future rail infrastructure decisions.
Responsibilities
* Lead and deliver a strategic rail route study end-to-end
* Provide direction across early-stage development and long-term planning
* Coordinate and integrate technical workstreams, including:
o Rail demand forecasting
o Capacity analysis
o Rolling stock strategy
* Interpret and challenge technical outputs (rather than producing detailed modelling)
* Act as the key interface with Network Rail sponsors and development teams
* Manage and assure externally commissioned consultancy work
* Lead and support a small team of planners
* Engage with internal and external stakeholders at a senior level
Essential Experience & Skills
* Applicants must demonstrate: Proven experience leading strategic rail planning studies (e.g. route or network studies)
* Strong understanding of rail demand, capacity, and rolling stock (at a review/challenge level)
* Experience acting as an intelligent client, managing specialist suppliers
* Ability to assess and challenge technical outputs effectively
* Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
* Experience leading teams or managing consultants
* Background within Network Rail, TOCs, or rail consultancies
Desirable Backgrounds
* Previous experience working within or closely with Network Rail
* Knowledge of the Anglia and/or East Midlands rail network
* Experience in early-stage development or long-term planning frameworks
What This Role Is NOT
* Project planning (Primavera / MS Project)
* Programme or delivery management
* Construction or delivery-focused rail roles
* Generic strategy roles without rail systems planning experience
Ideal Backgrounds
* Rail strategy or systems planning roles
* Rail consultancies (e.g. Atkins, Arup, Jacobs, AECOM, SYSTRA, Steer)
* Train Operating Companies (strategic planning teams)
* Network Rail route or strategic planning functions
Rate Guidance
* Target rate: Up to £720 per day
* Exceptional candidates may be considered at £900-£1,000 per day, but only if working max 3 days per week
* Full-time candidates must align with the rate card (no exceptions)
Additional Information
This client participates in the Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS) (Disability Confident Scheme / Armed Forces Covenant).
Please highlight eligible candidates on submission.
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