At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the High Speed Business team, driving growth and client relationships.
- Company: Network Rail High Speed operates the UK's only international high-speed railway.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and discounts on travel and leisure.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and experience in sales management required.
- Other info: Fixed term contract with potential for extension; based in London.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 85000 £ per year.
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Resourcing Business Partner @ Network Rail | Resource Planning, LinkedIn Recruiter
Location
London, GB
Department Name
CT NR(High Speed) Ltd – High Speed Business (989034) G1
About Network Rail
Join our Finance Team at Network Rail High Speed – Head of High Speed Business
12 months fixed term contract – minimum of 12 months (with scope to be longer)
Who We Are
Network Rail High Speed Ltd. (NRHS) is responsible for operating and maintaining the UK’s only international high-speed railway (HS1) owned by London St. Pancras Highspeed.
The 109km London St. Pancras Highspeed infrastructure consists of a diverse range of railway assets such as the track, signalling, overhead line, lineside buildings, depots, viaducts and long tunnels. NRHS is also responsible for operating and maintaining three international stations; St Pancras, Stratford and Ebbsfleet International.
As a wholly owned subsidiary of Network Rail Infrastructure Ltd, NRHS is privately financed under an agreement with our client London St. Pancras Highspeed, undertaking a diverse range of activities from railway infrastructure maintenance and operations – through to station facilities management and retail on behalf of our client.
Our Vision: For everyone to love High Speed rail!
Our passengers and freight users are at the heart of everything we do. We help connect people to their friends and families and get goods to their destination safely and efficiently. We’re an organisation where people matter. When you\’re part of our team, you matter to us and you matter to millions. Watch our video to find out more!
Brief Description
The role
We have an exciting opportunity for a minimum of 12 months (with the scope to be longer) within Network Rail High Speed for a Head of Business.
You will direct the Network Rail High Speed (NRHS) business team as a viable business, developing productive client relationships, sales opportunities, and revenue.
You will lead the continuing growth of this area so that profits are maximised and risk to the core business are minimised.
Key responsibilities include the following:
- Direct the Network Rail High Speed (NRHS) business team as a viable independent business within the constraints of applicable legislation.
- Lead and champion the requirements & contractual rights of the client within the NRHS Strategic Business Plan and operational activities to support the HS1 Ltd periodic review process.
- Lead the development of the commercial processes of the NRHS Business team, developing relationships with external clients to maximise revenue for current and future business opportunities.
- Build and develop working relationships with key internal and external stakeholders to provide excellence in customer service including establishing and maintaining relationships, setting appropriate policies/standards and reporting regimes, and developing customer service initiatives.
- Lead the proactive management of the delivery of client’s requirements including the production and of a robust audit and compliance process for the Operator Agreement and Station Concession Agreements and any associated contracts and/or Delegated Agreements.
- Lead and direct the development of communications and engagement strategies to promote the NRHS business through effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
- Represent the NRHS Business team at a senior level across the industry, including customers, infrastructure managers, TOCS, and stakeholders such as DfT and ORR.
- Lead the collation, analysis and interpretation of all relevant market intelligence so that appropriate decisions may be reached and stakeholders informed.
- Lead the monitoring, measurement of compliance and adherence to regulatory and legal requirements.
This is a fixed term position, so come and be part of a truly unique business that brings the UK closer to Europe.
We\’re dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the passengers we serve. To achieve this, we\’re committed to becoming an open, diverse, and inclusive workplace, leveraging the skills and expertise of our talented workforce.
Together, we strive to create a safe and accessible railway for everyone. Discover more about the importance of Diversity and Inclusion at Network Rail by clicking here .
Investing in our people is key to enhancing the safety, reliability, and efficiency of our railway system. If you\’re passionate about making a meaningful impact, then this opportunity is for you!
About our people and the recruitment process – We\’re an inclusive employer of choice and we welcome applications from everyone! We encourage our colleagues to work flexibly, as we know traditional working patterns don\’t always fit. If you want to consider working flexibly, just let us know and we\’ll do our best to help and invest in your career with us , whilst you have a healthy work life balance.
We\’re also a Disability Confident Leader employer and we\’ll try our best to adapt the process and offer a reasonable alternative to help support people with disabilities access, apply and interview for roles.
About The Role (External)
The person
So, who are we looking for? If you can match the essential criteria below, then we look forward to receiving your application.
Essential
- Qualified to degree level or equivalent
- Commercially astute, persuasive and customer focussed
- Experience/knowledge of regulatory and legal constraints and requirements
- Previous experience within a sales management environment
- Relevant business and financial skills and experience
- Experience of leading change management
- Personal qualities of communication and persuasion
Although it isn’t essential, it would be helpful to your application if you also matched the below:
Desirable
- Multi-company experience
- Comprehensive knowledge of products and services that may be offered
- Comprehensive knowledge of the Railway
How To Apply (External)
The important stuff
The role is based at One Stratford Place, however frequent travel to our other office and site locations along the High Speed line is expected.
What can we offer you in return?
We follow a structured pay framework, any salary offered will be within the following pay range:
£85,395 – £101,323 (plus inner London allowance of £3,270)
In addition, we can offer you a rewarding career with excellent benefits, including:
Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days) with the option to buy/sell days.
Defined benefit pension scheme.
75% subsidy on rail and underground season tickets.
Up to 75% off leisure travel.
️ Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
Discounts at some stations with your Network Rail pass
Flexible/hybrid working arrangements
️ Volunteer leave to make a positive impact
Healthcare scheme, GymPass discounts, cycle to work scheme – plus more
We offer generous maternity, paternity and adoption leave to support our employees during significant life moments
In addition to the excellent benefits listed above, please click on the link below to read on what we offer to our employees:
Life at Network Rail
We want all our people to feel empowered to succeed, so we provide solid training and development opportunities to enhance your knowledge, increase your confidence, and enable you to achieve your career ambitions.
If you have been referred for a job vacancy in the Southern region of Network Rail, please complete the form below:
Targeted Diversity Employee Referral Form
If you are successful in your application, you may be required to go through a security vetting process (depending on the role).
We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for our people.We want our employees to reflect the diverse communities that we serve. We welcome different and fresh ways of thinking and encourage a culture where people feel empowered to act and we would consider flexible working.
Closing date and application process
The closing date will be 4 September 2025.Late applications will not be accepted. Network Rail High Speed retains the right to close the advert early depending on application volume.This role is also advertised externally,
For further information or an informal discussion about the role, please contact:
Kevin John, Finance Director –
Drugs and Alcohol Standard
All prospective candidates who are offered a conditional role will be required to undergo and pass a drugs and alcohol test. Your application will be rescinded if you record a positive test. All positive drugs and alcohol test results for prospective candidates will be securely held on Sentinel database and a 5 year suspension from applying for a safety critical role, a role which requires PTS certification or a Key Safety role on Network Rail Managed Infrastructure will be enforced.
You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you\’re unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please add a note to your application.
All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Executive
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
-
Job function
Consulting, Information Technology, and Sales
-
Industries
Rail Transportation
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Head of High Speed Business employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of High Speed Business
✨Tip Number 1
Network Rail values strong relationships with clients and stakeholders. Make sure to network actively within the rail industry, attend relevant events, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your interest and expertise in high-speed rail.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and developments in high-speed rail and the regulatory landscape. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading change management and driving revenue growth. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the Head of High Speed Business position.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the role involves a significant amount of stakeholder engagement, practice your communication skills. Consider mock interviews or discussions with peers to refine your ability to articulate your vision and strategies clearly and persuasively.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of High Speed Business
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of High Speed Business role. Understand the key responsibilities and required qualifications to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in sales management, regulatory knowledge, and any previous roles that demonstrate your ability to lead change management. Use specific examples to illustrate your achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for high-speed rail and customer service. Make sure to address how you can contribute to Network Rail's vision and goals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is crucial for a senior role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with Network Rail High Speed's operations, especially their role in the UK’s high-speed railway system. Knowing the key stakeholders and the regulatory environment will help you demonstrate your understanding of the challenges and opportunities in this sector.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Business, you'll need to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed teams, driven change, or improved processes. Highlight your ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Commercial Discussions
Given the focus on revenue generation and client relationships, be ready to discuss your experience in sales management and commercial strategy. Think about how you can contribute to maximising profits while minimising risks, and be prepared to share specific strategies you've implemented in previous roles.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Network Rail values diversity and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how you have fostered an inclusive environment in your previous roles. Share any initiatives you've led or participated in that promote diversity within teams or organisations.