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- Tasks: Lead and shape rail systems assurance strategy across complex, safety-critical programmes.
- Company: IKOS Consulting UK, a leader in rail systems engineering.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and excellent benefits package.
- Other info: Opportunity to build and develop a high-performing Systems Assurance team.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on rail safety and performance at a national level.
- Qualifications: 10 years in Rail Systems Engineering with proven leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 ÂŁ per year.
IKOS Consulting UK is seeking an experienced Head of Rail Systems Assurance to provide strategic leadership and governance across complex, safety‑critical rail programmes. This is a senior leadership role with real influence, shaping assurance strategy across multi‑disciplinary rail systems including infrastructure, rolling stock, signalling, power and operations.
The Role
Reporting directly to the COO, you will lead and own the rail systems assurance strategy, ensuring designs, integrations and operations meet the highest safety, technical, regulatory and performance standards. You’ll provide expert oversight across:
- Systems assurance, safety, RAMS, EMC and human factors
- Compliance with key rail standards (e.g. EN 50126/8/9, CSM‑RA, ROGS)
- Independent assessment interfaces (ISA, NoBo, DeBo, AsBo)
- Whole‑system risk management from concept through to commissioning
You’ll also act as a key interface with clients, regulators, operators and suppliers, providing clear executive‑level reporting on assurance status, risks and mitigations.
Leadership & Impact
This role includes building, leading and developing a high‑performing Systems Assurance team, championing safety culture, professional development and continuous improvement across the organisation.
About You
You’re a credible, influential rail assurance leader with:
- 10 years’ experience in Rail Systems Engineering, Safety, RAMS or Assurance
- Proven leadership on major rail programmes (infrastructure, signalling, rolling stock or digital systems)
- Deep knowledge of systems engineering and assurance principles (V‑cycle, integration, verification & validation)
- A strong track record delivering Safety Cases and technical assurance for complex, safety‑critical systems
- Experience working with regulatory bodies and independent assessors
You’ll be calm under pressure, integrity‑driven, highly organised and confident communicating complex technical issues at executive level.
What’s on Offer
- Senior, high‑impact leadership role
- Opportunity to shape assurance strategy across nationally significant rail programmes
- Hybrid working
- Competitive salary and an excellent benefits package
Interested? If you’re ready to lead assurance at a system‑wide level and make a meaningful impact on rail safety and performance, we’d love to hear from you.
Head of Rail Systems Assurance in Derby employer: IKOS AEGIS
Contact Detail:
IKOS AEGIS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Rail Systems Assurance in Derby
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend rail-related events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want you to be able to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in safety-critical rail programmes. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! We suggest you rehearse how you’d explain your leadership style and past successes in rail systems assurance. Confidence is key, so make sure you can articulate your value clearly.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly shows your enthusiasm. Plus, it makes it easier for us to find your application!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Rail Systems Assurance in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Rail Systems Assurance role. Highlight your experience in rail systems engineering and safety, and don’t forget to mention any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
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 achievements in rail assurance and how you’ve influenced safety culture in previous positions. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this is a senior role, we’re keen to see your leadership style. Talk about how you’ve built and developed high-performing teams in the past. We want to know how you inspire others and drive continuous improvement!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our company and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at IKOS AEGIS
✨Know Your Rail Standards
Make sure you’re well-versed in key rail standards like EN 50126/8/9 and CSM-RA. Brush up on how these standards apply to safety-critical systems, as you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in compliance during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of your leadership on major rail programmes. Highlight how you’ve built and developed high-performing teams, and be ready to discuss your approach to championing safety culture and continuous improvement.
✨Understand Whole-System Risk Management
Familiarise yourself with whole-system risk management from concept through to commissioning. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve managed risks in past projects and how you would approach this in the role.
✨Communicate Complex Issues Clearly
Practice explaining complex technical issues in a straightforward manner. You’ll need to communicate effectively with clients, regulators, and executive-level stakeholders, so clarity is key!