Location: Waterloo General Offices, London
Band & Salary: Band 1B (£97,850 – £116,101, up to £129,000 depending on experience)
Contract: Permanent, full-time (flexible working patterns considered)
Reports to: Group Director, Communications
Closing date: 21st January 2026
Brief Description
Shape the Future of Britain’s Railways
This is a pivotal moment for Britain’s railways. With landmark reforms underway, Network Rail is leading the way in transforming how our industry serves millions of people and businesses every day. This is your opportunity to be at the heart of change—helping to define the future of rail for generations to come.
As Director, Public Affairs & Reform Engagement, you’ll be a key voice in this transformation. You’ll lead a high-performing team working collaboratively across the rail industry to set the agenda for public affairs and policy, build trusted relationships with senior stakeholders across government and industry, and champion the reforms that will create a modern, efficient railway with passengers at its heart.
About the role (External)
Who we’re Looking For
We’re seeking a strategic, collaborative senior leader who thrives in complex environments and is passionate about making a difference. You’ll bring:
Extensive experience at a senior level within public affairs or policy, ideally with a background in rail, infrastructure, or an industry undergoing significant transformation.
A proven ability to shape and lead collaborative, cross-industry public affairs and engagement strategies that drive real change.
Strong relationships across Westminster and Whitehall, and the ability to quickly build credibility with senior stakeholders across industry and government.
The ability to inspire and lead teams through change.
Excellent written and spoken communication skills, with strong attention to detail.
Natural curiosity, drive, and a strong track record of driving progress in complex environments.
How to apply (External)
Salary: Band & Salary: Band 1B (£97,850 – £116,101, up to £129,000 depending on experience)
Closing date: 21st January. – Late applications will not be accepted.
Our Commitment
We’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. As a Disability Confident Leader, we’ll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process.
You’ll enjoy generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy or sell days, discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass, a defined benefit pension scheme, a 75% subsidy on train tickets, interest-free travel loans for train and car park season tickets, volunteer leave to make a positive impact, and more.
For further information, please contact the recruiter Deborah McDade on deborah.mcdade@networkrail.co.uk
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.
Safe behaviour is a requirement of working for Network Rail. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their awareness of our Safety Vision. All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. For more information, visit our careers site.
If you’re ready to make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you!
