At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic rail planning studies and manage technical workstreams.
- Company: Join a government client focused on impactful rail projects.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, hybrid working, and potential contract extension.
- Other info: Guaranteed interviews for veterans and support for diverse communication needs.
- Why this job: Make a difference in rail planning while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in strategic rail planning and strong stakeholder management.
We are currently looking for a Lead Strategic Planner for our government client. Please note: This is not a project planning role. This Lead Strategic Planner role is hybrid based between 50% on site in Stratford London and the remainder of the week working remotely. There is no further flexibility with the on-site requirement. The contract for this Lead Strategic Planner position is for 6-months, with potential to extend, operating inside IR35.
Essential skills/experience required:
- Proven experience leading strategic rail planning studies (e.g. route studies, rail network or systems planning)
- Understanding of rail demand, capacity and rolling stock at an interpretation / challenge level
- Experience acting as an intelligent client managing specialist suppliers
- Ability to identify good vs poor technical outputs
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
- Experience leading small teams or managing consultants
- Background in rail, TOCs, or rail-focused consultancies
Desirable:
- Previous experience working within or closely with rail
- Knowledge of the East Midlands and/or Anglia rail network
- Experience in early-stage development or long-term planning frameworks
Role / Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage a strategic rail route study end-to-end
- Provide strategic direction across early-stage development activity
- Coordinate and integrate technical workstreams including:
- Rail demand forecasting
- Capacity analysis
- Rolling stock strategy
- Interpret and challenge technical outputs (not produce detailed modelling)
- Act as the primary interface with sponsors and development teams
- Manage and assure externally commissioned consultancy work
- Lead and support a small team of planners
- Represent the organisation with internal and external stakeholders as required
As a member of the Confident Scheme, Circle and our Client guarantee to interview all candidates who meet all the essential criteria for the vacancy. The client supports the Armed Forces Covenant and guarantees to interview all veterans and their spouses/partners who meet all essential criteria. To meet reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know if you need a better way to communicate.
Lead Strategy Planner in London employer: Energy Jobline ZR
As a Lead Strategic Planner with our government client in London, you will be part of a dynamic and inclusive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. The hybrid working model allows for a balanced approach to work, with 50% on-site engagement in Stratford and the flexibility of remote work, fostering both professional growth and personal well-being. With a focus on strategic rail planning, this role offers unique opportunities to lead impactful projects while contributing to the development of the rail network, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Strategy Planner in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the rail industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Lead Strategic Planner role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your stakeholder management skills. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated with different parties, especially in complex projects. This will show you're ready to hit the ground running!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on roles that match your expertise in rail planning. Use our website to find positions that align with your skills and experience. Tailor your approach to each application to stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them why you’re the perfect fit for the Lead Strategic Planner role.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Strategy Planner in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Strategic Planner role. Highlight your experience in strategic rail planning and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your stakeholder management and communication skills, as these are key for us.
Showcase Your Experience:When filling out your application, be sure to showcase your experience with rail demand and capacity. We’re interested in how you’ve interpreted and challenged technical outputs in past roles, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people quickly. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Energy Jobline ZR
✨Know Your Rail Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of rail demand, capacity, and rolling stock. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences leading strategic rail planning studies and how they relate to the role. This will show that you understand the nuances of the industry and can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively managed stakeholders in the past. Think about times when you had to communicate complex information clearly or resolve conflicts. This is crucial for the Lead Strategic Planner role, so be ready to demonstrate your strong communication skills.
✨Lead with Confidence
Since this role involves leading a small team, be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Share specific instances where you’ve successfully guided a team through challenges or managed consultants. Highlighting your ability to inspire and direct others will set you apart.
✨Understand the Client's Needs
Research the government client and their current projects. Understanding their priorities and challenges will help you tailor your responses during the interview. Show that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in how you can contribute to their goals.
