Programme Lead (Rail)

Cedar; London; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Programme Lead to spearhead a high-profile rail transformation initiative. This pivotal role focuses on steering a major fleet cascade programme, requiring strategic clarity and operational insight. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in programme leadership within the rail sector, demonstrating an ability to inspire and guide cross-functional teams. If you thrive under pressure and are passionate about delivering impactful change, this is your chance to make a tangible difference in a mission-critical programme. Join a team committed to excellence and innovation in the rail industry.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in programme leadership within complex matrix environments.
• Strong track record of delivering major change in the rail sector.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mobilisation of services, ensuring timely and budget-conscious delivery.
• Drive collaboration and influence senior stakeholders across the organisation.

Skills

Programme Leadership

Change Management

Stakeholder Management

Operational Insight

Financial Awareness

Agility

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.