Job Description

Programme Lead - Rail Sector

Location: London (Hybrid)

Rate: £850/day (Outside IR35)

Are you ready to take the lead on a high-profile rail transformation programme? We're looking for a dynamic Programme Lead to steer a major fleet cascade initiative. This is a critical, visible role at the heart of cross-organisational change and delivery, with a focus on impact-not just process.

The ideal candidate will bring strategic clarity, operational insight, and change leadership experience from across the rail sector.

What You'll Be Doing

Lead mobilisation of MkV services, on time and on budget-maximising benefits while actively managing risks.

Own delivery of a complex, cross-functional change programme, transitioning smoothly into BAU.

Inspire and guide a matrix team of contractors, internal stakeholders and suppliers.

Be a visible and influential leader across the network

Drive cross-organisational collaboration, influence senior stakeholders, and shape decisions with a holistic view-operational, commercial, financial, and strategic.

Bring energy, direction, and accountability to a mission-critical programme for the business.

What We're Looking For

Proven programme leadership in complex matrix environments

Deep understanding of railway operations-enough to offer constructive challenge

A strong track record of delivering major change in the rail sector

Experience working in unionised, regulated environments

Gravitas, political acumen, and confidence to operate at senior levels

Ability to influence, coach, challenge and lead across boundaries

Financial awareness and a sharp eye for delivery metrics

Agile, hands-on, tenacious-someone who thrives under pressure

This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference, leading one of the most exciting transformation programmes in the rail sector. If you're energised by challenge, passionate about delivery, and ready to hit the ground running-we want to hear from you