Head of Operational Safety

About the role

We are looking for a Head of Operational Safety to lead the delivery of safe railway operations across our network. Based at our Head Office in London Bridge, the role is hybrid (three days on‑site) and sits at the heart of our railway operation, reporting to the Safety & Environment leadership team.

Key responsibilities

• Provide professional authority on Railway Group Standards, Rail Industry Standards and company instructions, ensuring consistency and continuous improvement.
• Oversee competence management systems for safety‑critical operational roles and lead operational assurance, audits and reviews.
• Review high‑level accident and incident investigations, embed learning and reduce risk.
• Collaborate with Train Services, Passenger Services, Engineering and Major Programmes to integrate safety into infrastructure, rolling stock and signalling changes.
• Influence senior leaders and external stakeholders without direct authority, balancing operational rigour with practical delivery.

Required profile

• Proven leadership with clear professional authority and confident decision‑making.
• Deep knowledge of railway operations, train driving rules and safety standards.
• Experience in competence assessment, verification and audit activities.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and lead during incidents and investigations.
• Strong influencing skills with credibility at senior level.
• Relevant safety and operational qualifications (NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent, Personal Track Safety, Train Driving Management and Competence, Accident Investigation and Root Cause Analysis, Level 3 Non‑Technical Skills).
• Essential railway operational experience, including understanding of Network Rail‑controlled infrastructure.

Required skills

• NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent)
• Personal Track Safety (PTS)
• Train Driving Management and Competence (SE/WI/OPS/001)
• Accident Investigation and Root Cause Analysis
• Level 3 Award in Non‑Technical Skills
• Knowledge of Railway Group Standards and Rail Industry Standards