At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a pioneering Battery Electric Train programme to decarbonise rail services and enhance passenger experience.
- Company: Chiltern Railways, a key player in modernising fleet operations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £85,000, with opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable transport and shape the future of rail.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in rail programmes and strong communication skills.
Role Purpose
Chiltern Railways is playing a key role in a pioneering multi operator Battery Electric Train (BEMU) programme that will help decarbonise rail services, modernise fleet operations, and improve the passenger experience across the network. We are seeking a Programme Lead to represent Chiltern’s interests, coordinate our internal readiness, and ensure seamless integration with the wider cross industry programme. This is a high-profile, strategically important role that sits at the intersection of fleet engineering, operations, commercial strategy, and industry collaboration. You will act as Chiltern’s senior interface to partner operators, Network Rail, rolling stock manufacturers, and government bodies, ensuring our requirements are understood, our risks are managed, and our ambitions are realised.
Key Accountabilities
- Strategic Leadership for Chiltern
- Lead Chiltern Railways’ involvement in the multi operator BEMU programme, shaping our strategic position and ensuring alignment with our long-term fleet and decarbonisation strategy.
- Translate the cross industry programme vision into a clear internal roadmap for Chiltern, covering fleet, depots, operations, commercial, and customer impacts.
- Cross Industry Coordination
- Serve as Chiltern’s primary representative in multi-operator governance forums, technical working groups, and programme boards.
- Ensure Chiltern’s operational, engineering, and commercial requirements are reflected in shared specifications, standards, and decisions.
- Build strong relationships with partner TOCs, Network Rail, manufacturers, and DfT stakeholders.
- Fleet, Infrastructure & Operational Integration
- Oversee the development of Chiltern specific requirements for battery electric rolling stock, charging infrastructure, depot modifications, and operational deployment.
- Coordinate operational readiness activities including driver training, maintenance capability, timetable planning, and safety validation.
- Ensure seamless integration of battery electric operations into Chiltern’s existing service patterns and performance commitments.
- Governance, Assurance & Risk Management
- Establish and lead Chiltern’s internal governance structure for the programme, ensuring clear decision-making and reporting.
- Identify and manage risks, issues, and dependencies affecting Chiltern’s readiness or programme outcomes.
- Provide regular updates to Chiltern’s Executive Team and Board, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making.
- Commercial & Financial Oversight
- Support procurement and commercial negotiations related to rolling stock, infrastructure, and supporting services.
- Oversee Chiltern’s programme budget, cost forecasts, and funding submissions.
- Ensure value for money and alignment with contractual and regulatory obligations.
- Safety, Sustainability & Innovation
- Champion Chiltern’s safety culture, ensuring all activities meet industry safety and compliance standards.
- Embed sustainability principles across fleet, infrastructure, and operational planning.
- Promote innovation in energy management, passenger experience, and operational efficiency.
Person Specification
You’ll excel in this role if you combine strategic thinking with hands-on programme leadership, and if you’re energised by working across organisational boundaries to deliver something genuinely transformative for the railway.
Essential Experience
- Proven leadership in major fleet, rolling stock, or rail infrastructure programmes.
- Strong understanding of railway operations, engineering, and safety frameworks.
- Demonstrable expertise in programme governance, risk management, and delivery assurance.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills at senior levels.
Desirable Experience
- Experience with alternative traction technologies (battery, hydrogen, hybrid, or electrification).
- Knowledge of depot strategy, fleet introduction, or operational readiness planning.
- Experience working with DfT, Network Rail, or cross industry programme structures.
- Background in fleet procurement or commercial contract management.
What You’ll Bring
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to build trust across diverse partners.
- Strategic clarity paired with disciplined delivery.
- Confidence in leading technical, operational, and commercial discussions.
- A passion for decarbonisation, innovation, and improving the passenger experience.
- Calm, authoritative leadership in a complex, fast-moving environment.
Programme Lead employer: Chiltern Railways
Chiltern Railways is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead transformative projects in the rail industry from our central location at Marylebone Station, London. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, we foster a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth and development, ensuring our employees are equipped to make a meaningful impact on the future of rail transport. Join us to be part of a pioneering team dedicated to decarbonising rail services while enhancing the passenger experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Programme Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, and meet-ups to connect with people in the rail sector. The more you engage, the better your chances of landing that Programme Lead role.
✨Tip Number 2
Don’t just apply; follow up! After submitting your application through our website, drop a friendly email to the hiring manager expressing your enthusiasm for the role. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Chiltern Railways and the BEMU programme. Understand our goals and challenges so you can demonstrate how your experience aligns with our strategic vision during the chat.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past. We want to see that you can handle the complexities of the Programme Lead role with confidence.
We think you need these skills to ace Programme Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Programme Lead role. Highlight your experience in fleet management and programme governance, and show how your skills align with our mission at Chiltern Railways.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your proven leadership abilities! Share specific examples of how you've led major projects or teams, especially in rail or infrastructure settings. This will help us understand your strategic thinking and hands-on approach.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make your achievements stand out. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to complex topics like decarbonisation and operational integration.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Chiltern Railways
✨Know Your Programme Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of the Battery Electric Train (BEMU) programme. Understand its goals, challenges, and how it aligns with Chiltern Railways' strategic vision. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led major fleet or rail infrastructure programmes. Highlight your ability to manage risks, coordinate teams, and influence stakeholders. This is crucial for a role that requires strong leadership and cross-industry collaboration.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing complex topics like operational readiness or governance structures. Use straightforward language and be ready to explain technical concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. This will help you connect with the interviewers and showcase your communication skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Decarbonisation
Express your genuine interest in sustainability and innovation within the rail industry. Share any relevant experiences or ideas you have about improving passenger experience through decarbonisation efforts. This will resonate well with the values of Chiltern Railways and show that you're aligned with their mission.
