Head of Operational Safety, Standards, and Security
Location: London (Hybrid)
Salary: Up to £6-figure-package (flexible for the right candidate)
Reporting to: Director of Train Services
A unique opportunity to build and shape the operational safety framework for an evolving rail organisation
We 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 Opportunity
As 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 deliveryExperience & Background
We 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 onesPersonal 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 environmentQualifications
NEBOSH, Chartered or Fellow status desirable but not essential
Practical operational credibility and real-world implementation experience are highly valuedBenefits Package
Travel Perks: Unlimited free travel on company services
Rail Discounts: 75% discount on rail services across all UK Train Operating Companies
International Travel: 50–75% 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 work–life 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 resourcesWhy 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 (url removed) for further information