Chief of Staff

Are you ready to shape the future of Britain's railways?

South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex are embarking on an ambitious journey to create a truly integrated railway, in the run-up to the formation of Great British Railways (GBR).  We are seeking an exceptional Chief of Staff to coordinate complex stakeholder relationships, leading both the external affairs and communications approach and the day to day running of the Managing Director's office. 

The Chief of Staff will be a driving force behind focus, alignment, and delivery across South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex.  Acting as a trusted partner to leadership teams, you will cut through complexity, prioritise what matters most, and turn strategy into action.          

This is a unique opportunity to stand at the forefront of one of the most significant transformations in UK Rail.  You'll play a pivotal role in uniting two major organisations, ensuring that stakeholders, passengers, communities, and colleagues experience a clear, consistent, and compelling vision for the railway of the future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the integration of SWR and Network Railway Wessex external affairs and communications activities into one seamless approach
• Support the Executive team to develop and deliver a forward-looking strategy that positions our railway as a model for Great British Railways (GBR)
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders ensuring consistent credible, and proactive engagement with government, industry, media, and community stakeholders.
• Coordinate teams and priorities across both organisations embedding collaboration at every level.
• Drive innovation in how we communicate with our passengers, partners, and people ensuring our messages inspire trust and pride.
• Represent, support and deputise for the Managing Director at various forums (especially where there is a political dynamic).  This role participates at Executive Leadership meetings and events.

About You

• Exceptional political acumen, with the ability to build relationships and influence at the highest levels.
• Ability to translate strategic vision into clear priorities and practical delivery
• Experience in leading organisational change and integration, bringing people and cultures together.
• Strong grasp of governance, performance management, and risk management
• Proven ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Exceptional communication skills that are creative, strategic, and inspiring
• Passionate about the role rail plays in connecting people and supporting economies.

Working Pattern

Working an average of 37 hours per week over 5 days

Expected travel across the SWR network 

Will include an On Call commitment 

The Reward

In return we offer a competitive salary and a variety of valuable benefits, including:

• Free duty, residential and leisure travel on SWR services for employees
• Free leisure travel for spouse/partner and dependants (criteria dependent)
• 75% discount on many other train operating companies
• Full training and support with development
• Excellent pension scheme

We all belong at SWR. Our vision is to provide an inclusive environment for all colleagues, ensuring all candidates have an equal opportunity to access meaningful employment.

We value our differences such as age, gender, LGBTQIA+, ethnicity, religion, and disability. We maintain a zero tolerance towards any form of prejudice towards our colleagues, customers, and future talent.

We celebrate and encourage diversity of thought, progressive ways of working and seeing all our colleagues grow and thrive.

If you require additional support to complete your application due to a disability or neurodivergent condition, for example, dyslexia, dyspraxia, or autism, please follow the links below.  We encourage you to share any additional needs you may require so we can provide a fair and equal process for all who apply.

https://exceptionalindividuals.com/neurodiversity/

https://www.healthassured.org/blog/neurodiversity/