Senior Reform Specialist

This role is one of two regulatory reform specialists, working as part of a wider team to deliver and support Network Rail’s engagement in the development and delivery of the regulatory contractual regime, and its application.

Within the business this means providing technical expertise on the access framework to deliver core business process associated with the capacity allocation process - including through direct support to regions managing access rights discussions, and training of Regions and SO Customer Teams. Externally you would be engaging with ORR and industry bodies such as the Class Representative Committee on matters related to the access & charging regime and its ongoing evolution (including Network Code application and development).

In respect of areas of expertise, you will be seeking to support both industry-wide and Network Rail corporate goals., The role is one of three posts reporting to the Regulatory Reform Manager who provide direction and strategy for the company’s compliance with regulatory obligations. Much of the activity is to support our regional and Freight and National Customer colleagues in participating in the Access Framework that the team manage as part of Network Rail’s licence requirements. Externally, there is a significant team engagement to being effective relationship with the ORR (Office of Rail and Road) and other external shareholders to deliver regulatory reporting and assurance activities., · Enjoys complexity: You find navigating the intricacies of large-scale queries and issues invigorating and have an ability for simplifying the complex.

· Innovative: You are not satisfied with the status quo and constantly seek out innovative solutions to enhance outcomes.

· Strong communicator: You can convey complex information clearly and concisely to stakeholders at all levels.

· Agile: You can adapt to rapidly changing environments and pivot project direction as needed without losing momentum.

We've seen an increasing workload since covid recovery, the increasing congestion (or near congestion) of the network means access applications are becoming more onerous and the regions requires increasing volumes of training and application specific support – we are looking for someone who can help step-up the this service to be better delivered and provide a capability to pick up additional access contract related reform challenges such as on changes to the Network Code.

What does the average day look like?

In this role, you'll manage projects that deliver essential changes to our regulatory and contractual regime, assessing their impact on our business.

You'll lead initiatives to build a comprehensive corporate knowledge base for managing these changes, providing policy leadership on access charging and Network Code issues.

Your proactive approach will involve liaising with various routes to understand their needs for support, guidance, and training in implementing the regime.

By identifying opportunities within the regulatory and contractual framework, you'll help us achieve our medium and long-term corporate goals.

Additionally, you'll maintain and develop effective relationships with key stakeholders, including the ORR, and support the growth and development of junior team members, enhancing their technical expertise.

To be successful in this role you’ll need to be able to deal with day to day access rights queries from Route Teams. You need to have knowledge of the Access Framework. You’ll enjoy the opportunity to work with colleagues at all levels and need to create and execute a rapid deployment approach for solutions., · Practical experience of contract management, regulation, or client services

· Strong analytical and communication skills

· Ability to articulate complex topics to non-specialist audience.

· Educated to degree level, preferably in economics or finance; or relevant alternative experience.

Desirable Criteria

· Knowledge of the railway sector.

· Experience of a network industry and/or regulatory environment.

· Knowledge of the Access Framework for both Freight and Passenger Operators.

Are you ready to make a difference in people's lives? At Network Rail, we connect passengers and freight customers, ensuring safe and efficient transportation across the country.

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.

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!

This role is a full-time opportunity, but flexible working patterns will be considered.

Network Rail positively embraces flexible working recognising that you may wish to balance work and family/home life. We will, whenever possible, help you to maximise your contribution through enabling flexible working arrangements. We will consider requests from any successful applicant on a case-by-case basis and in line with our Policy Flexible Working Arrangements Policy and Procedure.pdf.

For guidance we would expect the holder of this role to be in the office as agreed in order that they are able to work with team members, engage with colleagues, and to be reasonably available to attend meetings including with stakeholders such as the Regulator in London as necessary.

Band & Salary: Band 3 £46,701 - £52,538 (Subject to experience)

Closing date: 17th Jan 25. On occasions, we may need to close the advert early based upon application volumes. Late applications may not be accepted.

Next Steps: Interviews will be held W/C 28th Jan 25, depending on business requirements.

Some of our great benefits:

Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.

Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.

Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass.

Defined benefit pension scheme

75% subsidy on train tickets.

️ Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.

️ Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.

Plus more…., Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.

Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.

Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass.

Defined benefit pension scheme

75% subsidy on train tickets.

️ Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.

️ Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.

Plus more….