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- Tasks: Lead the Rail Services team, managing contracts and collaborating with senior executives.
- Company: Join South Western Railway, a key player in the UK's rail services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous pension, 25 days leave, flexible working, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team impacting passenger services and shaping the future of rail.
- Qualifications: Strong relationship-building skills and experience in commercial problem-solving required.
- Other info: Hybrid working model available; apply by 20th July 2025.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
413823 Rail Services Lead, South Western Railway (SWR) Department for Transport Apply before 11:55 pm on Sunday 20th July 2025 Location: London (Hybrid) Salary: £59,686 – £65,221 – A Civil Service Pension with an employer contribution of 28.97% Contract Type: Permanent Flexible working, Full-time, Job share, Part-time This is an exciting opportunity to join the Rail Services (Southern) team who sit within Rail Services Group which is responsible for ensuring the successful development and the day-to-day management of railway contracts. You will work collaboratively with South Western Railway (SWR) as our delivery partner, so that they operate their Services Agreement (SA) in the interest of passengers, ensuring that they meet their suite of obligations and are supported and challenged to deliver agreed outcomes. You may be required to work flexibly in future across teams managing other Train Operating Companies. The role is high-profile and fast-moving and will require a blend of strategic stakeholder management, commercial, project management and leadership skills. Top Responsibilities Working with senior level executives of SWR, including on the Annual Business Plan, performance assessment and improvement, subsidy reduction and contract Advising internal and external stakeholders, Ministers, DfT senior leaders on matters. This can include providing material to the Ministerial and Press teams, sometimes within challenging timescales. Management responsibility of a team as well as organising, reporting and planning information and their workloads. Managing the contract/agreement and having a clear understanding of the key levers the Department can use to maximise passenger benefits while minimising risk to the taxpayer. Developing relationships and working collaboratively with DfTO, NR and Train Operating Companies as part of Shadow Great British Railways (SGBR). Build knowledge and play a key role in the transition to the new public ownership Services Agreement, including working closely with the Public Ownership Transition (POTP) team and DFTO. Benefits Employer pension contribution of 28.97% of your salary. Read more about Civil Service Pensions here 25 days annual leave, increasing by 1 day each year of service (up to a maximum of 30 days annual leave). 8 Bank Holidays plus an additional Privilege Day to mark the Kings birthday. Access to the staff discount portal. Excellent career development opportunities and the potential to undertake professional qualifications relevant to your role paid for by the department, such as CIPD, Prince2, apprenticeships, etc. Joining a diverse and inclusive workforce with a range of staff communities to support all our colleagues. 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme providing free confidential help and advice for staff. Flexible working options where we encourage a great work-life balance. About you We are looking for an individual who has: The ability to build and establish collaborative commercial relationships with multiple stakeholders at Board level. Experience of solving complex commercial problems in a fast paced and high- profile environment. An understanding of market and change in commercial drivers and the ability to develop strategies to exploit these, considering financial, legal and commercial. A high degree of personal resilience, with the ability to work under pressure and maintain your performance levels under challenging circumstances. Be able to demonstrate or quickly build understanding of strategic relationship management including contract management processes How to Apply Read the full job description and apply at Civil Service Jobs via the link provided. This vacancy closes at 23:55 on Sunday 20 th July. TPBN1_UKTJ
Rail Services Lead employer: Department for Transport
Contact Detail:
Department for Transport Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Rail Services Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key stakeholders involved in the Rail Services Lead role. Understanding their priorities and challenges will help you engage effectively during interviews and demonstrate your ability to build collaborative relationships.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current trends and changes within the rail industry, especially those affecting South Western Railway. This knowledge will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to strategic initiatives and address commercial challenges.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your problem-solving skills in high-pressure environments. Highlighting specific instances where you've successfully navigated complex issues will resonate well with the interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your understanding of contract management processes by discussing relevant frameworks or methodologies you've used in previous roles. This will show your readiness to manage agreements effectively and maximise passenger benefits.
We think you need these skills to ace Rail Services Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description for the Rail Services Lead position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in stakeholder management, commercial problem-solving, and contract management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your enthusiasm for the role. Address how your skills align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description, particularly your ability to work collaboratively with senior executives.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this high-profile role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Department for Transport
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you thoroughly understand the job description and responsibilities of the Rail Services Lead. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks, such as managing contracts and collaborating with stakeholders, so you can discuss how your experience aligns with these requirements.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to build collaborative relationships with senior executives and stakeholders. Highlight any past experiences where you've successfully navigated complex commercial problems or managed high-profile projects.
✨Demonstrate Resilience and Adaptability
Be ready to discuss situations where you've had to work under pressure or adapt to changing circumstances. This role requires a high degree of personal resilience, so sharing relevant anecdotes will help illustrate your capability in this area.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Since the role involves strategic relationship management and contract processes, brush up on your knowledge of current market trends and commercial drivers. Be prepared to discuss how you would develop strategies to maximise passenger benefits while minimising risks.
