At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic rail planning studies and manage technical workstreams.
- Company: Government client focused on innovative rail solutions.
- 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 real impact in the rail industry while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic rail planning and strong stakeholder management skills.
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 supportive work culture that values innovation and collaboration. 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 excite you! Use our website to find positions that match your skills and interests. Tailor your approach to each application, highlighting your experience in strategic rail planning.
✨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 a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
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 how you've led strategic rail planning studies in the past and how you can interpret and challenge technical outputs effectively.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
This role requires strong stakeholder management, so think of examples where you've successfully communicated with various parties. Prepare to share how you've acted as an intelligent client managing specialist suppliers and how you’ve navigated complex relationships.
✨Lead with Confidence
As a Lead Strategic Planner, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Think about times when you've led small teams or managed consultants. Be ready to explain your approach to providing strategic direction and how you support your team.
✨Understand the Local Context
Familiarise yourself with the East Midlands and Anglia rail networks. If you have any specific insights or experiences related to these areas, be sure to bring them up during the interview to show your relevance to the role.
