Job Description
Head of Operational Safety, Standards, and SecurityLocation: London (Hybrid)Salary: Up to £6-figure-package(flexible for the right candidate)Reporting to: Director of Train ServicesA unique opportunity to build and shape the operational safety framework foran evolving rail organisationWe are supporting a confidential client within the UK rail sector at a formative stage of growth and transformation. They are seeking an experienced senior safety leader to design and implement the standards, systems, and governance that will underpin safe, compliant, and high-performing service offerings.This is a rare opportunity to join at an early stage and build the operational safety, standards, and security environment from first principles, rather than inheriting legacy frameworks.The OpportunityAs Head of Operations Standards, Safety & Security, you will act as the professional lead for operational safety and standards across the organisation. You will be responsible for developing and embedding safety management systems, competency frameworks, operational policies, and assurance structures required to support future operational readiness.Working within a lean, collaborative environment, you will partner with senior internal leaders and external industry stakeholders to ensure a modern, integrated, and compliant approach to operations. A key focus during the early phase will be supporting regulatory readiness and establishing the frameworks that will supportlong term business objectives.Key Responsibilities
* Lead the development of operational safety management systems and standards from the ground up
* Establish competency, assurance, and governance frameworks to support operational readiness
* Provide senior technical leadership across safety, standards, and security strategy
* Support regulatory engagement and compliance activities
* Work collaboratively across multiple stakeholders to ensure alignment and integration
* Contribute to mobilisation planning and future operational delivery
Experience & BackgroundWe are particularly interested in senior safety leaders from:
* Train operating environments (strong preference)
* Freight operations with aligned safety framework experience
* Regulatory or industry bodies with operational safety exposure
Core Capability Areas
* Proven experience developing operational safety systems, standards, or frameworks
* Strong understanding of railway legislation and compliance requirements
* Experience supporting major operational or technological change
* Ability to work effectively across complex, multi-stakeholder environments
* Track record of building and implementing frameworks, not just managing existing ones
Personal Qualities
* Collaborative, credible, and pragmatic leadership style
* Comfortable working in a developing and evolving environment
* Motivated by creating and shaping new systems rather than maintaining legacy structures
* Open, accountable, and people-focused approach
* Interest in contributing to a long-term programme environment
Qualifications
* NEBOSH, Chartered or Fellow status desirable but not essential
* Practical operational credibility and real-world implementation experience are highly valued
Benefits Package
* Travel Perks: Unlimited free travel on company services
* Rail Discounts: 75% discount on rail services across all UK Train Operating Companies
* International Travel: 5075% discount on most European rail services (including high-speed routes) after one year of service
* Financial & Pension: Highly competitive salary and access to a strong pension offering
* Final Salary Pension: Employee contribution 7.48% with employer contributing at 1.5x this rate
* Annual Leave: Generous holiday allowance supporting strong worklife balance
* Career Development: Extensive on-the-job training, structured development, and progression opportunities
* Work Environment: Inclusive, collaborative culture that encourages authenticity and new ideas
* Wellbeing Support: Access to an Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing resources
Why Apply?This is a career-defining opportunity to help shape the safety and operational standards of a major new rail operation at a critical stage of its development. The successful candidate will have genuine influence, senior visibility, and the ability to build something enduring within a forward-thinking organisation.A full candidate briefing pack, including further detail on the role, organisation, and selection process, will be shared with shortlisted applicants.Please contact for further information.
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