Head of Continuous Improvement (Weather)

We are looking for a Head of Continuous Improvement (Weather) to join our operations team. You will own the development of the region’s strategy and tactical approach to structured continuous improvement in how Scotland manages the risk to railway operations caused by climate change, and to assure alignment with Network Rails corporate strategies. Leading the development of the region’s continuous improvement weather capability and the delivery of the training plan for continuous improvement.

About the role (External)

Here are some of the duties your role will include: -

· You will lead, direct and own the development of structured continuous seasonal weather improvement, aligned to corporate and stakeholder objectives.

· Leading and directing the identification and implementation of continuous improvement weather management initiatives across the region.

· You will own the programme vision and maintain the alignment with Network Rail’s strategic and tactical direction including national programmes.

· Leading the development of continuous improvement capability through regular review of training and personnel development support.

· As the Head of Continuous Improvement, you will create a robust succession plans for your team so as to provide consistent support. Leading and directing the team in support of achieving business objectives, deploying Lean tools and techniques as required.

· Working with other functions to confirm strategic alignment across the route.

· Developing a roadmap through to the end of CP7 demonstrating continuous improvement capability and maturity.

· You will manage the interface with stakeholders and deliver effective interfaces and communications. Check that ‘inbound’ improvement ideas are appropriately captured, assessed, and prioritised, and that ‘outbound’ best practice and lessons learned are communicated through the correct channels.

· Representing the region at cross functional and industry forums, enabling sharing of and learning from best practice and assuring alignment with other related training. Benchmark best practice and implement emerging thinking as required.

· Developing and delivering a robust continuous improvement training plan designed to support the needs of the business’s capability requirements.

· You will manage the programme governance arrangements, identify and manage key strategic and tactical risks and monitor benefits appropriately.

· Member of a relevant professional body, such as the Chartered Institute of Train Operators, or equivalent experience

· Continuous improvement expert with demonstrable successful experience in the development, implementation and delivery of continuous improvement strategies and programmes

· Business Change expert with experience of delivering leadership, cultural and behavioural change programmes

· Thorough understanding of portfolio, programme, and project and operations management methodologies.

· Substantial stakeholder management experience

· Effective leadership qualities and excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

· Successful experience of influencing and operating at a strategic level including the ability to translate and deliver business strategies.

· Strong commercial focus and financially astute

It’s desirable if you have it to help give you context to the role: -

· Formal Programme Management qualification (e.g. Managing Successful Programmes Practitioner)

At Network Rail, our passengers and freight users are at the heart of everything we do. We help connect people to their friends and families and get goods to their destination safely and efficiently. We’re an organisation where people matter. Watch our video to find out more!

Scotland's Railway is part of this large family, and it covers a large geographical area from the Borders to Thurso at the far tip of the North East of Scotland, accounting for almost 20 per cent of the UK rail network. We provide rapid access along busy commuter routes to our seven cities, servicing the varied needs of our business and leisure commuter services, including cross border services and rural services. We have up to 50 freight services operating every day and we are steadily building capacity for this to grow. Our ambition to be responsive to passengers and freight users, drives us every day and we're empowered to do the right thing for those who use the rail network. We actively challenge unsafe practices and take responsibility for addressing risks, resolving issues and protecting safety and wellbeing.

Our colleagues are encouraged to work flexibly as we know that busy lives don’t always fit around a traditional working pattern, if you need flexibility to complete your role just let us know and we will do our upmost to help you to invest in your career with us while balancing other aspects of your life.