Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser in London
Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser

Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser in London

London Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
DfT Operator

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Develop train service strategies and policies to enhance passenger experience and industry efficiency.
  • Company: Join DFTO, the government’s public sector rail owning group focused on improving rail services.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation in the rail industry.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of rail services in the UK.
  • Qualifications: Strong analytical skills and experience in policy development or rail operations.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

About DFTO

DFTO is the government’s public sector rail owning group. Its purpose is to bring all currently privately-owned train operators into public ownership in advance of the creation of Great British Railways in 2027 – and deliver improvements in the here and now by unifying and integrating train operations under common public ownership. DFTO has over 30,000 employees, runs over 8,500 services a day and delivers over 640 million customer journeys across its networks every year. Major improvements are being delivered by DFTO train operators (TOCs) that are already under public ownership – these are LNER, Northern, TransPennine Express (TPE), Southeastern, South Western Railway (SWR), c2c, Greater Anglia and WM Trains.

We work closely with the DfT but operate independently with our own governance and leadership teams. Our priority is ensuring efficient, dependable rail services for everyone.

Primary Purpose of Job

The Rolling Stock and Infrastructure Whole System Strategy team is responsible for producing an overarching strategy for the specification and supply of trains on the network and the infrastructure needed to support them. The strategy will focus on passenger needs while improving rail industry efficiency and environmental performance and improving visibility and certainty to industry supply chains.

The new team brings together consideration of the financial, economic, commercial and operational aspects of the rolling stock and infrastructure in the long-term. It includes policy teams on train service, rolling stock, depots and infrastructure, and will work closely with stakeholders in Network Rail, DfT Operator and others elsewhere in DfT and wider government.

Key Deliverables

The Train Service, Rolling Stock and Depots policy team will lead the centre of excellence that develops the Government’s agreed approach to providing trains and services that meet passenger needs while driving efficiency in the whole railway system. The team will, in conjunction with stakeholders, develop the future scenarios of train services and associated fleets and depots that meet the strategic objectives set out in the emerging Long Term Strategy for Rail that is being developed by the Rail Reform Team.

The Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser has a key role in the development of the strategy, identifying with stakeholders and industry partners the potential choices around train service design that mean train services can best meet the needs of passengers while improving overall industry efficiency and performance.

The role holder will develop proposals for future specifications and changes to train service strategy, working closely with the Today’s Railway region teams, DfT-O and Network Rail. The role-holder will also work with the rest of the Train Service, Rolling Stock and Depots policy team and the Rail Delivery Policy Unit to support development of a wholistic approach for an interim and future full Whole System Strategy that incorporates train service, rolling stock, depots and performance improvement, balancing pragmatism with challenge of existing practices to improve outcomes.

This role will require strong analytical and operational focuses and excellent cross-working capability to ensure the effective involvement of the Region teams, the Rolling Stock Capability Hub, Policy Delivery team and NR.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support the Train Service Policy and Specification Manager in development of a train service strategy and policy for train service specification that aligns with the Long Term Rail Strategy, and drives overall efficiency, performance and passenger focus across the industry.
  • Support the RSG Region teams in their management of the train service requirements and review of train service improvement initiatives from train operators.
  • Build strong working relationships with RSG Region teams, train operators and NR to support continuous improvement of the train service and maintain alignment to Long Term Strategy for rail.
  • Represent DfT at senior industry train service planning forums.
  • Actively promote a culture of inclusivity and continuous improvement within RSISS wider Directorate.

Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser in London employer: DfT Operator

DFTO is an exceptional employer, dedicated to transforming the rail industry through public ownership and innovative strategies that prioritise passenger needs. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and continuous improvement, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture and ample opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic environment. Joining DFTO means being part of a forward-thinking team that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of rail services across the UK.
DfT Operator

Contact Detail:

DfT Operator Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser in London

✨Tip Number 1

Network, network, network! Get out there and connect with people in the rail industry. Attend events, join forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that dream job!

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews like a pro! Research the company, understand their goals, and think about how your skills can help them achieve those objectives. We want to show them that we’re not just another candidate, but the perfect fit for their team.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Grab a friend or family member and do some mock interviews. This will help us get comfortable with common questions and refine our answers. Plus, it’s a great way to boost our confidence before the real deal.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to follow up! After an interview, send a quick thank you email to express our appreciation for the opportunity. It shows professionalism and keeps us fresh in their minds. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!

We think you need these skills to ace Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser in London

Analytical Skills
Operational Focus
Cross-Working Capability
Stakeholder Engagement
Train Service Design
Policy Development
Efficiency Improvement
Performance Management
Relationship Building
Strategic Planning
Communication Skills
Inclusivity Promotion
Continuous Improvement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser role. Highlight how your background fits with the goals of DFTO and the Long Term Rail Strategy.

Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role requires strong analytical capabilities, be sure to include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes in previous roles. We want to see your problem-solving skills in action!

Emphasise Collaboration: This position involves working closely with various stakeholders, so highlight any experience you have in cross-functional teams. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to build relationships and work collaboratively to achieve common goals.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensure you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at DFTO!

How to prepare for a job interview at DfT Operator

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you understand the key responsibilities of the Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser role. Familiarise yourself with the Long Term Rail Strategy and how it impacts train service specifications. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your genuine interest and expertise.

✨Build Relationships

Since this role involves working closely with various stakeholders, think about how you can demonstrate your ability to build strong working relationships. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with teams or external partners to achieve a common goal.

✨Show Your Analytical Skills

This position requires strong analytical capabilities. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to inform decisions or improve processes in previous roles. Consider bringing a specific example that highlights your problem-solving skills and your ability to balance pragmatism with innovative thinking.

✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Improvement

DFTO values a culture of inclusivity and continuous improvement. Think about how you can convey your commitment to these principles during the interview. Share instances where you've promoted inclusivity in your work environment or contributed to process improvements that benefited your team or organisation.

Train Service Policy and Specification Adviser in London
DfT Operator
Location: London

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