Network Capability and Access Manager

Freightliner is the UK's largest maritime intermodal logistics operator, transporting containers from all major deep-sea ports to our national network of inland terminals, as well as a leading operator in the UK Heavy Haul rail freight market. Freightliner has operations across Europe offering both Intermodal and Heavy Haul rail freight services seamlessly connecting European countries and the UK. Freightliner was recently voted Rail Freight Company of the Year at the 2024 Multimodal Awards. We are proud to highlight the company’s commitment to increased diversity and a supportive work culture for all employees.

Working as the Network Capability and Access Manager you will deliver improvements to Freightliner’s timetable through optimisation and negotiation of Train Planning Rules and Standard Possession Opportunities with Network Rail. You will manage network capability through ownership of the network change process and secure improvements through preparation of supplemental agreements to our track access contract.

Your key responsibilities will be:

• Reviewing, responding and negotiating all Network Change proposals received from Network Rail;
• Negotiation of Timetable Planning Rules, seeking to improve capacity and performance by identifying deficiencies and working with stakeholders to agree amendments;
• Negotiation of Standard Possession Opportunities, proactively challenging Network Rail to improve efficiency for Freightliner services;
• Creation and establishment of Supplemental Agreements to ensure Freightliner’s Track Access Contracts reflect operations on the Network;
• Strategically influence Network Rail projects to deliver improved capability in future infrastructure schemes;
• Challenge existing business protocols with your own initiatives, pro-actively adding value to the business;
• Actively promote engagement, communication and dialogue within the wider teams for the benefit of information flow, to embed best practice and to solidify management control and commercial and operational direction of the business;
• Ensure appropriate Designated Financial Authorities (‘DFAs’) are in place within the role’s remit, and adhered to;
• Promote a mindset of “Safety First” and instil an ethos of continual safety improvement within your area of responsibility;
• Support and drive good governance and control (including Sarbanes Oxley (‘SOx’)) principles within the position’s remit, identifying any potential deficiencies in controls and immediately remediate;
• Get involved in any ad hoc projects, including M&A activity, as may be required, from time to time.

Key job requirements:

• Knowledge and understanding of Parts D, G and J of the Network Code;
• Knowledge and understanding of railway signalling and operations;
• Knowledge and understanding of National railway geography and Freightliner operations;
• High level understanding of all train planning disciplines, systems and processes;
• Ability to work on own initiative and manage multiple competing deadlines;
• Ability to travel frequently for meetings, including overnight stays where necessary;
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills - able to analyse data to evaluate options, use facts and data to implement solutions;
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of staff across the rail industry;
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal;
• Ability to multitask and work well under pressure, prioritising tasks and workload and managing conflicting demands;
• Ability to navigate complex problems and ensure effective and sound decision making, systematically and under pressure;
• Ability to build healthy working relationships with business stakeholders while exhibiting independence and objectivity in thought and action;
• Ability to work on own initiative, process managing and delegating across multiple areas of Freightliner business.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Exhibits and lives the Group Corporate Values;
• Attacks goals and objectives with drive, energy and enthusiasm;
• Proactive approach to work and uses own initiative to implement improvements;
• Embraces new challenges and owns outcomes of projects;
• Sets high standards of work for self, and consistently achieves these;
• High level of integrity and openness, combined with commitment to good governance;
• Energetic, highly motivated, with an enquiring mind and passion for excellence and innovation, in pursuit of business growth and success;
• Listens attentively to others’ perspectives and provides constructive feedback and coaching.

Our perks and benefits:

Our people are our most important asset. We strive to empower our employees, ensuring they are trained and competent, fit for work, always informed, and completely engaged in our culture that places safety and wellbeing firmly at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for the most committed and reliable individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and experience needed for their roles. In return we can offer considerable career progression, and a rewarding career in an award-winning team alongside:

• Competitive pay;
• Fantastic final-salary pension scheme after an initial qualifying period;
• Enhanced maternity & paternity pay;
• Access to the company's life assurance scheme;
• A range of benefits to make your own so you can get the most of your work and home life which will also help save you money and hassle.

This post is subject to standard pre-employment checks including employment references, medical & D&A screening, and successful DBS background checks. Could it be time to start your career journey with us? Apply today!

Our commitment to you, once you join our team, is to foster growth and provide developmental opportunities to ensure you reach your utmost potential. We are looking for the most committed and reliable individuals who possess the knowledge, skills and experience needed for their roles. In return we can offer competitive pay, excellent benefits, a competitive pension scheme and a rewarding career in an award-winning team.