Chiltern Railways
Programme Lead
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Role: Programme Lead - BEMU
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Location: Marylebone Station, London
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract - 12 Months
Salary: Up to £85,000 per annum
Role Purpose
Chiltern Railways is playing a key role in a pioneering multi operator Battery Electric Train (BEMU) programme that will help decarbonise rail services, modernise fleet operations, and improve the passenger experience across the network. We are seeking a Programme Lead to represent Chiltern’s interests, coordinate our internal readiness, and ensure seamless integration with the wider cross industry programme.
This is a high-profile, strategically important role that sits at the intersection of fleet engineering, operations, commercial strategy, and industry collaboration. You will act as Chiltern’s senior interface to partner operators, Network Rail, rolling stock manufacturers, and government bodies, ensuring our requirements are understood, our risks are managed, and our ambitions are realised.
Key Accountabilities
Strategic Leadership for Chiltern
- Lead Chiltern Railways’ involvement in the multi operator BEMU programme, shaping our strategic position and ensuring alignment with our long-term fleet and decarbonisation strategy.
- Translate the cross industry programme vision into a clear internal roadmap for Chiltern, covering fleet, depots, operations, commercial, and customer impacts.
Cross Industry Coordination
- Serve as Chiltern’s primary representative in multi-operator governance forums, technical working groups, and programme boards.
- Ensure Chiltern’s operational, engineering, and commercial requirements are reflected in shared specifications, standards, and decisions.
- Build strong relationships with partner TOCs, Network Rail, manufacturers, and DfT stakeholders.
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Fleet, Infrastructure & Operational Integration
- Oversee the development of Chiltern specific requirements for battery electric rolling stock, charging infrastructure, depot modifications, and operational deployment.
- Coordinate operational readiness activities including driver training, maintenance capability, timetable planning, and safety validation.
- Ensure seamless integration of battery electric operations into Chiltern’s existing service patterns and performance commitments.
Governance, Assurance & Risk Management
- Establish and lead Chiltern’s internal governance structure for the programme, ensuring clear decision-making and reporting.
- Identify and manage risks, issues, and dependencies affecting Chiltern’s readiness or programme outcomes.
- Provide regular updates to Chiltern’s Executive Team and Board, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making.
Commercial & Financial Oversight
- Support procurement and commercial negotiations related to rolling stock, infrastructure, and supporting services.
- Oversee Chiltern’s programme budget, cost forecasts, and funding submissions.
- Ensure value for money and alignment with contractual and regulatory obligations.
Safety, Sustainability & Innovation
- Champion Chiltern’s safety culture, ensuring all activities meet industry safety and compliance standards.
- Embed sustainability principles across fleet, infrastructure, and operational planning.
- Promote innovation in energy management, passenger experience, and operational efficiency.
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Person Specification
You’ll excel in this role if you combine strategic thinking with hands-on programme leadership, and if you’re energised by working across organisational boundaries to deliver something genuinely transformative for the railway.
Essential Experience
- Proven leadership in major fleet, rolling stock, or rail infrastructure programmes.
- Strong understanding of railway operations, engineering, and safety frameworks.
- Demonstrable expertise in programme governance, risk management, and delivery assurance.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills at senior levels.
Desirable Experience
- Experience with alternative traction technologies (battery, hydrogen, hybrid, or electrification).
- Knowledge of depot strategy, fleet introduction, or operational readiness planning.
- Experience working with DfT, Network Rail, or cross industry programme structures.
- Background in fleet procurement or commercial contract management.
What You’ll Bring
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to build trust across diverse partners.
- Strategic clarity paired with disciplined delivery.
- Confidence in leading technical, operational, and commercial discussions.
- A passion for decarbonisation, innovation, and improving the passenger experience.
- Calm, authoritative leadership in a complex, fast‑moving environment.
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