Company Overview:

Our client is a leading global engineering consultancy, providing high-value, multi-disciplinary solutions to a range of industries. We are currently seeking an experienced Asset Protection Interface Manager to work on externally funded projects in collaboration with a major rail client. This role will involve managing the seamless integration of these projects into the operational railway environment while mitigating associated risks.

Job Purpose:
To safely and effectively integrate externally funded projects into the railway environment, minimising disruptions to railway operations and infrastructure. You will utilise your knowledge of rail-related risks and constraints to provide solutions that meet both external client objectives and Network Rail requirements. In this role, you will guide the client team to ensure adherence to Network Rail standards and processes, facilitating successful project delivery.

Key Responsibilities:
Project Delivery:

Develop and deliver solutions for high-value, politically sensitive, and multi-disciplinary projects (Levels of Control 2, 3 & 4).
Where required, ensure that project delivery adheres to the GRIP lifecycle, managing risks associated with railway operations.
Stakeholder Management:

Engage with internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with Network Rail governance, assurance processes, and the Railways Act.
Oversee the completion of project deliverables, facilitating smooth communication between all parties.
Operational Railway Interface:

Analyze the client remit and programme to provide clarity on operational railway interface requirements.
Provide solutions to enable early decision-making by the client, ensuring alignment with operational constraints.
Regulatory Compliance:

Liaise with Construction Design Management (CDM) Client and other duty holders to ensure project compliance with CDM regulations.
Project Support & Resource Allocation:

Collaborate with Network Rail to secure resources and ensure project compliance with Network Rail processes and procedures.
Track progress against milestones, supporting the implementation of contingency measures where necessary.
Risk Management:

Assist in identifying the appropriate proposer for infrastructure changes, ensuring compliance with Common Safety Method – Risk Assessment regulations.
Monitor and analyze risk and performance throughout the project lifecycle.
Continuous Improvement:

Review lessons learned and develop mitigation strategies with stakeholders to refine project proposals and ensure successful future delivery.
Stakeholder Engagement:

Build strong relationships with all stakeholders, manage expectations, and champion project interests.
Identify opportunities to reduce Network Rail asset and maintenance liabilities, driving efficiencies and resolving conflicts.
Cost Recovery:

Facilitate the recovery of Network Rail costs in accordance with legal agreements between external parties and Network Rail.
Safety and Incident Support:

Provide support for accident, incident, and close-call events, ensuring outputs are shared with the client team.
Skills, Experience, and Qualifications:
Essential:

Degree in a relevant discipline or equivalent experience.
Membership (or working towards) of the Association for Project Management.
Achieved PRINCE2 Foundation or equivalent qualification.
Strong knowledge of the operational railway and railway infrastructure.
Proven experience in delivering projects within the rail environment.
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Ability to constructively challenge ideas, with strong decision-making and evaluation skills.
Experience in project commercial requirements and programme controls.
Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental requirements, including CDM regulations and CSM-RA.
Knowledge and experience in project budget management.
Familiarity with the GRIP (Governance for Railway Investment Projects) process.
Desirable:

Knowledge of investment, commercial, and procurement practices.
Experience working within Asset Protection.
Understanding of rail infrastructure maintenance techniques.
Familiarity with rail possessions/isolations.