Asset Manager – Rolling Stock & Business Planning

We’re looking for a strategic and commercially astute Asset Manager – Rolling Stock & Business Planning to lead the development, implementation, and oversight of our Engineering Business Plan and play a key role in managing high-value rolling stock and depot contracts and supplier relationships. 

This is a high-profile role at the centre of a £150 million per annum operation, where your influence will stretch across engineering, finance, operations, and infrastructure. As the primary interface with suppliers such as Alstom, Siemens, and Network Rail, you’ll ensure our contracts deliver value for money, efficiency, and long-term sustainability. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead the development and delivery of the Engineering Department’s Annual Business Plan (ABP), aligning with safety, operational, infrastructure, and performance goals. 
• Collaborate with stakeholders across departments to align engineering strategies with wider corporate objectives. 
• Drive continuous improvement in planning, cost-efficiency, and delivery performance. 
• Manage key supply chain relationships and contractual performance, including: 
• Alstom – Electrostar TSSSA 
• Siemens – Class 717 TSSSA 
• Class 171 contracts and other rolling stock agreements 
• Act as a key contract owner, ensuring budget control, cost recovery, and change management processes are robust and effective. 
• Provide expert commercial and contractual support to depot operations, including lease obligations and regulatory compliance. 
• Lead or support dispute resolution related to National Depot Access Conditions (mediation, adjudication, arbitration). 
• Line manage and direct a team of Asset Support Managers, ensuring clarity of purpose and delivery of strategic objectives. 
• Deputise for the Head of Engineering Contracts as required. 

What we’re looking for    

• Degree-qualified with specialist knowledge in business and project planning 
• Proven track record in managing high-value contracts within the rail or regulated infrastructure sectors 
• Strong knowledge of rail industry regulation, funding, and depot leasing arrangements 
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and delivering large capital or operational programmes 
• Excellent stakeholder and supplier management skills – able to influence at senior levels 
• Practical experience in contractual disputes and resolution, including familiarity with Industry Access Dispute Resolution Rules 
• A collaborative leadership style and a drive to deliver value for money 

What you will get:  

We offer an environment where continuous learning and professional development are genuinely encouraged, supported by a collaborative and welcoming team.  

In addition to a competitive package, you’ll receive:  

• Free travel across our network  
• A privilege-rate Oyster card for London travel  
• Up to 75% discount on journeys with other train operating companies  
• A final salary pension scheme  
• Comprehensive training and opportunities for career progression  
• Access to a range of industry-leading benefits