Sponsorship Director

At GBRX, we are driving innovation in the railway industry, delivering complex projects that shape the future of transportation. We will foster a values-driven culture rooted in curiosity, pioneering spirit, and tenacity. By applying a first principles approach, we tackle the most complex challenges in railway modernisation, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and driving transformative change.

As Sponsorship Director, you will lead groundbreaking programmes that redefine the future of the rail industry, delivering complex, innovative projects that set new standards for excellence. This is an opportunity to take on the most challenging initiatives in rail—harnessing technologies such as AI, computer vision, and advanced data analytics to transform how we operate, plan, and perform.

You’ll oversee programmes that tackle the industry’s biggest hurdles: integrating real-time AI-driven decision-making to improve train service performance, deploying advanced computer vision technology to identify and prevent asset failures, and building next-generation network models powered by deep data insights.

These initiatives demand creativity, technical expertise, and strategic leadership to deliver solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Brief Description

You will be at the forefront of delivering transformative, cutting-edge programmes that drive the rail industry’s modernisation and innovation. This includes:

• Leading initiatives that integrate AI and data science to unlock smarter decision-making and deliver measurable improvements to train performance.

• Overseeing projects that deploy next-generation technologies—like computer vision and predictive analytics—to revolutionise asset reliability, reduce disruption, and strengthen operational resilience.

• Developing and delivering sustainable, data-driven solutions to address systemic industry challenges, such as network planning inefficiencies and real-time passenger disruption management.

• Building collaborative partnerships with industry stakeholders, technology experts, and government bodies to align ambitious innovations with operational needs and customer expectations.

• Navigating complex programme delivery challenges with a focus on scalability, real-world application, and long-term industry transformation.

These are not “business as usual” projects—they are high-stakes, high-impact initiatives that demand bold leadership, strategic oversight, and an ability to overcome technical and operational barriers. By driving this portfolio of innovations, you will play a key role in shaping the rail industry for decades to come., • Lead a team of professionals in the successful sponsorship and delivery of major projects and programmes, meeting commercial, sustainability, and client requirements, while safeguarding GBRX’s corporate position.

• Develop and implement strategic initiatives that support GBRX’s long-term goals, creating a clear roadmap to achieve business objectives while aligning with industry trends and opportunities.

• Prepare and present strategic papers, business plans, and investment cases to senior management and stakeholders, providing clear insights for decision-making.

• Manage a portfolio of projects and investments, allocating resources efficiently and aligning them with GBRX’s strategic priorities, while continuously evaluating performance for improvement.

• Serve as the escalation point for project issues, facilitating timely interventions and stakeholder negotiations to maintain project progress and resolve challenges.

• Foster and maintain strategic partnerships with key external stakeholders, including government bodies, investors, and industry partners, to support innovation and revenue-generating opportunities for GBRX.

• Implement governance frameworks to establish best practices are applied across teams, promoting continual improvement in both project sponsorship and investment management.

• Conduct stage gate reviews for projects, critically assessing cost, scope, and timeline performance, and supporting recovery plans to maintain progress.

• Monitor industry trends and developments, providing insights to guide strategic decisions related to both project delivery and investment opportunities.

• Establish compliance with corporate governance and safety standards, adhering to all relevant regulations and guidelines, including investment and legal frameworks

• Proven experience in leading complex projects and programmes, delivering them on time, within budget, and aligned with organisational goals. Demonstrated ability to drive strategic initiatives and manage investment portfolios.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government bodies, investors, and industry partners.

• Strong understanding of business planning, investment cases, and preparing strategic papers to guide senior-level decisions. Ability to identify and manage risks effectively to support project and investment success.

• In-depth understanding of the railway or transportation sectors, including regulatory requirements and industry dynamics, or relevant experience in infrastructure-focused industries.

• A strategic thinker with a track record of leading innovation, solving complex challenges, and delivering transformative results in dynamic environments.

Desirable Qualifications

• Previous experience working with government bodies, industry partners, and investors.

• Postgraduate qualification (e.g., MBA) or relevant professional certifications.

• Membership in relevant professional bodies or associations related to business strategy or investment management.

Ready to drive technology and innovation?

Join GBRX as the Sponsorship Director and play a key role in shaping the future of the railway industry.