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- Tasks: Lead the strategy for system architecture and oversee IT operations to enhance railway services.
- Company: Network Rail connects millions, ensuring safe and efficient transport across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, discounts on travel, and a supportive healthcare scheme.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team driving tech innovation in the railway industry for real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education or equivalent experience in managing major IT programmes is essential.
- Other info: This is a permanent, full-time role with hybrid working options available.
The predicted salary is between 74000 - 85000 £ per year.
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Location
Milton Keynes, GB
Department Name
TA Asset Management & Architecture (570681) G1
About Network Rail
Join Network Rail – Where People and Connections Matter
At Network Rail, we\’re dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you\’re not just part of a team – you\’re part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway. Click here to learn more.
We\’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we\’ll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
If you\’re ready to make a real difference, we\’d love to hear from you!
We offer 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 stations with your Network Rail pass.
Flexible/hybrid working arrangements.
️ Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
Healthcare Scheme, GymPass discounts, Cycle to work plus more.
We offer generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave to support our employees duringsignificant life moments
Plus, more….
Brief Description
The railway has seen nearly 200 years of technology and innovation that has transformed how we provide services to passengers and freight customers.
Technology is continuing to transform the railway industry. Imagine an exciting environment where Digital, Data, and Technology (DDaT) are not just buzzwords but the driving force behind every operation, every decision, and every solution.
As part of the DDaT directorate, you have a unique opportunity to enable our customers and industry partners with modern and transformative technology. From the day-to-day IT & Telecoms operations that keeps a national railway running, to the extensive delivery programmes that our helping to reshape the railway – we are at the forefront of all of it. We operate with a talented and passionate workforce, fostering empowered individuals and teams who understand that technology is not just a tool – it\’s the catalyst for progress, especially in an ever-demanding industry where change is a constant.
Click ‘apply for this job’ to apply. If you would like to speak the Resourcing Team, please contact
About The Role (External)
Main responsibilities:
What will you be doing?
- Lead on the strategy and development of the NRT system architecture estate (OSS, BSS, NMS & Data Centre IT Infrastructure) to implement a simplified, future enabled system environment which can deliver improved business outcomes and performance improvements to customers.
- Direct, lead and oversee the systems managed services supplier contract that will build and run the core platform and systems to high standards of reliability, availability, compliance, and security, meeting all contractual obligations e.g., Critical KPI’s SLA’S.
- Create and shape the system services strategy, tailoring it to changing business demands/strategies and external industry influences, making adjustments to the Systems Delivery Services offering in order to maximise investment/benefits opportunities.
- Lead and develop the full system architecture road map and plan in the line with the business strategy and technology roadmap including the innovation of new tools and systems to achieve business simplification and customer delivery improvements.
- Direct the delivery of a major portfolio of agile focused Digital delivery projects with values of multi-millions, directing and leading teams across all disciplines (systems integrators, consultants, technology).
- Lead and develop a full licence management tracking and reporting suite for the business functions, delivering business and regulatory compliance and cost avoidance.
- Define and direct the function, establishing formal policies and frameworks, working with a wide range of stakeholders and customers to define service offerings and capabilities to enable and drive consistent but adaptable IT/ system service strategy across Network Rail Telecoms.
- Own, monitor and assure all design and changes in system architecture, so that all System work undertaken is aligned to the EMP process, and that full operational handover to the in-life environment meets the required standards and levels of assurance.
- Develop and manage the system team to achieve business objectives and outcomes, monitor resources to deliver a flexible, competent, skilled, and effective workforce in order to identify and implement quality and efficiency improvement initiatives
- Lead the IT Delivery team to provide effective line management and development requirements.
What essential skills and experiences are required?
Essential
- Relevant experience in the successful management of major system/IT programmes of work in the telecom and/or rail industries
- Educated to degree level or equivalent experience
- Significant systems experience across a range of platforms including BSS, OSS, Billing, Network Management, System Management, Virtualisation, and Storage
- Strong knowledge of IT technology and system development trends and the resulting implications for the wider business environment, with experience of applying this in a complex organisation.
- Able to demonstrate experience in managing multi-discipline teams and members.
- Strong commercial and negotiation skills in relation to supplier management of system/IT systems.
- Knowledge of the principles of investment processes and procedures coupled with strong budget and forecasting experience
- Proven stakeholder management experience
- Able to demonstrate experience in managing multi-discipline teams and members
- Able to demonstrate clear and concise leadership skills across a multi-discipline team and organisation
- Able to lead a team and motivate team members across a range of functions
Desirable
- ETOM and/or ITIL certification
- Formal IT Certification (Microsoft, Sun, Oracle)
- Generic technical understanding of networking principles around voice, data and IP services
- Project safety management experience
How To Apply (External)
You will need to complete a supporting statement addressing how you meet the essential criteria, please complete this as part of the application process and add this to your CV in one document.
Vacancy type: Permanent role, 35 hours per week, Hybrid working of 3 days in the office. We welcome applications from those seeking flexible hours.
Location: The Quadrant Milton Keynes
Closing date: 11th August 2025
Interviews from: 25th August 2025
Band & Salary: Band 2C £85,395 to £101,323
We are committed to a diverse workplace enriched with representation from diverse cultures, backgrounds and skills. We pride ourselves on creating an environment where difference is embraced, and individuals can thrive. We recognise that the success of the team is dependent on a multi-cultural, multi-disciplined group of individuals, aligned to deliver successful solutions.
At Network Rail, we have a number of employee networks to reflect our diverse population and help to raise issues to the wider workforce and support their membership and support our Everybody Matters strategy, led by our central Diversity & Inclusion team. We have Diversity & Inclusion Champions who take part and lead on many activities, to drive through more initiatives to support an inclusive environment for all its people and promote a professional and positive working environment . For more information on Diversity & Inclusion at Network Rail, please follow this link
Do you consider yourself to have a protected characteristic? If so and you require any additional support with your application, please do not hesitate to contact the Resourcer who will happily assist
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
-
Job function
Project Management and Information Technology
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Industries
Rail Transportation
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Head of Systems & Business Tools employer: Network Rail
Contact Detail:
Network Rail Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Systems & Business Tools
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in IT and telecom systems, especially those relevant to the rail industry. This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the rail and telecom sectors. Attend industry events or join online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities within Network Rail.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing multi-discipline teams and projects. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and how you've successfully navigated complex system implementations.
✨Tip Number 4
Understand Network Rail's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this culture and support their initiatives, as this aligns with their values and mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Systems & Business Tools
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Systems & Business Tools role. Understand the key responsibilities and essential skills required, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: As part of your application, you'll need to complete a supporting statement. Address how your experience meets the essential criteria outlined in the job description. Be specific and provide examples that demonstrate your relevant skills and achievements.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV is updated and tailored to highlight your experience in managing major system/IT programmes, particularly in the telecom or rail industries. Emphasise your leadership skills and any relevant certifications you hold.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, take the time to proofread both your CV and supporting statement. Check for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at Network Rail
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the job description for the Head of Systems & Business Tools. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as leading system architecture and managing supplier contracts. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Given the technical nature of this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with various systems like BSS, OSS, and Network Management. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully implemented technology solutions, demonstrating your ability to drive business improvements.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Questions
Expect questions about your experience in managing stakeholders and multi-discipline teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've navigated complex relationships and ensured alignment across different functions, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a potential leader, it's important to convey your leadership style and how you motivate teams. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate your ability to lead diverse groups, manage conflicts, and drive projects to successful completion, which will resonate well with the interviewers.
