Network Rail
Senior Economic Planner
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Who We Are
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. You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support.
If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!
Vacancy Details
Duration: Secondment or Fixed Term Contract of 12 months with the potential to extend or go permanent. (Please note, secondments are subject to line manager approval, please discuss this with them before applying).
Salary: Band 3C, £55,596 - £65,966
Contact: If you require any support with your application, please click here for contact details.
Some Of Our Great Benefits
- Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.
- Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.
- Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass.
- Defined benefit pension scheme
- 75% subsidy on train tickets.
- Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.
- Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.
Plus more....
About The Role
What does the average day look like?
There is no standard day in this role. One morning could be spent reviewing forecasting outputs, overseeing transport appraisal work and supporting analysts with complex modelling challenges. Later in the day, you may be presenting findings to regional leadership teams, advising colleagues on the economic case for a proposed enhancement scheme, or engaging with industry partners and government stakeholders.
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A significant part of the role involves balancing delivery across a broad portfolio, ensuring work is completed to a high technical standard while meeting client requirements and deadlines. The position requires sound judgement, strong prioritisation skills and the ability to translate complex analysis into clear recommendations that support strategic decision-making.
A Little Bit About The Team...
The Economic Analysis team delivers expert forecasting, appraisal and economic advice that supports some of the railway's most important investment and planning decisions. Working closely with regional planners, strategic planning teams and industry partners, the team helps shape programmes that deliver benefits for passengers, freight customers and communities across the network.
The successful candidate will lead a small team of analysts and support colleagues while managing their own portfolio of work. The team works collaboratively with both internal and external stakeholders, including regional business functions, public sector organisations and wider industry partners. It is a supportive, professional environment that values technical excellence, innovation and continuous development.
Next Steps
CV shortlisting will take place after the advert closes, with interviews planned from the week commencing 27th July, subject to business needs. Early applications are encouraged, as we may close the advert early due to high application volumes.
We encourage you to review our Safety Vision, as safety is an important part of the culture at Network Rail
All external offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information
Your Experience And Skills
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for an experienced economic planning professional who can quickly become a trusted expert within the team and wider organisation. You'll bring a strong background in transport appraisal, demand forecasting and economic analysis, alongside the ability to lead projects and develop people. The ideal candidate will be comfortable managing multiple priorities, directing analysts and providing technical leadership across a varied portfolio of work. Strong communication skills are essential, with the ability to explain complex economic concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
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You will be confident challenging assumptions, identifying innovative solutions and influencing stakeholders at all levels. Just as importantly, you'll be someone who enjoys developing others, building capability within a team and creating an environment where colleagues can perform at their best. Experience within the railway industry would be highly advantageous, although candidates from other transport or infrastructure backgrounds with relevant expertise are encouraged to apply.
Essential Criteria
- Masters numerate degree level education or relevant experience.
- Chartered professional qualification (TPP) or able to demonstrate equivalent experience.
- Recognised industry leader in transport appraisal and demand forecasting.
- Experience of analysing large datasets and using complex analytical frameworks to support decisions.
- Experience of directing a large portfolio of projects.
- Experience of managing and developing teams.
- Proven ability to innovate and create solutions to complex modelling issues.
- Excellent presentation skills adjusting presentation style to differing audiences.
- Experience of developing and maintaining a network of industry relationships.
- Proven ability in drafting strategic documents that are clear and concise and understood by others.
- Appreciation of project risk issues and application of these to day-to-day tasks.
Desirable
- Relevant experience in the successful management of major programmes of work in the railway industry
- Risk management experience.
- Controls and assurance experience.
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