Head of Strategy and Government Partnerships

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary Head of Strategy and Government Partnerships to lead strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and governance. This is a pivotal role at the intersection of public policy, transport strategy, and commercial delivery, offering the opportunity to shape the future of rail services in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and advisory support to West Coast Partnership (WCP), ensuring effective contract delivery and risk management.
• Lead the development and implementation of the Strategic Business Plan, aligning with shareholder and government priorities.
• Act as the internal lead for the transition of the National Rail Contract (NRC) to public ownership.
• Represent the organisation at executive and industry forums, including the Rail Delivery Group (RDG).
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders including the Department for Transport (DfT), Office of Rail and Road (ORR), and other regulatory bodies.
• Oversee compliance with contractual and regulatory obligations, ensuring robust governance and reputational risk management.
• Sponsor ISO 44001 collaboration initiatives and drive continuous improvement across planning and governance.
• Serve as the point of contact for sensitive government and stakeholder communications.
• Lead risk management activities and ensure alignment with quality standards.
• Collaborate with the Public Relations team to proactively manage reputational risk.
• Line manage a team of five functional heads and their teams, providing leadership, coaching, and development support.
• Oversee departmental budgeting and financial planning.

If this opportunity excites you then we want to hear from you! Take a look at the role profile and apply and make a difference at Avanti West Coast. Please upload a CV with your application.

Benefits

• Final salary pension
• Free travel on Avanti West Coast for you/spouse/partner/dependents
• Privilege Travel card (75% off other train operators fares for leisure travel)
• 30 days holiday rising by 1 for every completed year of service to a maximum of 37 days (inclusive of bank holidays)
• 10 free journeys on other First Group Train Operators

At Avanti West Coast, we value the differences that make each of us outstanding. Avanti West Coast recognises the benefits of building a diverse workforce and employing people from diverse backgrounds, which includes their race, religion, age, gender, gender identity, disability, and sexual orientation.

Everyone who joins Avanti West Coast becomes part of our close-knit team. We are committed to ensuring that Avanti West Coast is inclusive, a place where people are encouraged to be themselves, and not an edited version to fit in. A place where differences are encouraged, recognised, accepted, and put to good use.

Our Values

Passionate – We foster a culture where everyone is driven by our mission and are dedicated to achieving it together.

Committed – We are committed to safety, reliability and delivering the very best for our customers, our colleagues, stakeholders, and the industry.

Integrity – We believe in taking responsibility for our reactions and decisions to ensure we do the right thing even when it is difficult to do and hold others accountable for doing the same.

Ambitious – We strive to be the best and are curious to new ways of working within our business and the wider industry.

Authentic – We are genuine, caring and grounded individuals that operate and communicate with openness, trust and clarity.

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