Network Rail

Strategic Planner
£32,256 - £36,288
Ref: IRC2134749

The role is an exciting opportunity to join our System Operator team on the busiest part of the national network. On the South-east Route optimising capacity, justification for improvements and demonstrating value for money are subject to intense political scrutiny. You will work closely with high-profile funders, partners and customers to specify what outputs the railway needs to deliver over the medium and long-term to maximise economic and social benefits for the region. As part of this, you will support development of the refranchising process.
This role would suit a strategic thinker and excellent communicator, who can take the initiative, work productively with partners at all levels, and influence the future strategy of the network. A strong applicant would be able to do so whilst effectively drawing upon experience and knowledge of Industry and/or Public Sector planning processes (such as GRIP and Business Case construction), and Economic Appraisal methodologies.

Key Accountabilities
• Facilitation of cross-functional input to the development of Network & Route Specifications (Key strategic documents outlining capability and strategy of the rail network).
• You will develop continuous modular strategic planning for specified routes, both from internal perspective (i.e. Operating Route / Area) and external perspective (i.e. by strategic route), making decisions based on the needs and priorities of partners to make certain that they are being met (e.g. regulatory outputs and customer dedications).
• Work with the Senior Strategic Planner to undertake business appraisal of complex projects and route strategies. Identify industry benefits of rail capacity changes, journey time improvements etc. Specify and obtain demand forecasts.
• You will review strategic plans for consistency with other industry plans, particularly relating to new rolling stock.
• Prepare research reports on strategic plans, customer reasonable requirements (CRR) and Business plans.
• You will assist with the Route’s Business Plan, in particular the presentation of Route Plan material.
• Assist in identifying the needs and priorities of partners and monitor to ensure that they are being met. Participate in liaison with internal and external parties.

Job skills, experience and qualifications

Do you have the below skills/experiences & qualifications?

Essential
• Degree or degree equivalent qualification
• Knowledge of Rail Industry and Network Rail’s contractual dedications to customers and suppliers
• Analytical skills and numeracy
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Commercial and financial awareness, including understanding economic trade-off analysis
• Knowledge of rail industry and commercial framework

Desirable
• Good knowledge of the customers and assets of the route
• Knowledge of estimating techniques, risk analysis and economic models and tools
• Knowledge of project development and delivery processes
• Knowledge of Network Rail’s sponsorship and Investment processes and procedures

For further information and to apply, please click here.

Closing date: 31st December 2018