Job Description

Description

A little bit about us:

East West Rail is an infrastructure programme linking communities between Oxford and Cambridge. The area is currently let down by a lack of transport choices, and we have a once in a generation opportunity to fix that - improving prosperity for people and places along the way.




East West Railway Company (that's us) was created by the Department for Transport (DfT) to oversee the delivery of East West Rail from construction through to wheels in motion, making sure the railway comes together in the right way.




At East West Railway Company, we're committed to building an inclusive railway for all. We believe that to do that, we must nurture a diverse team that represents the UK communities that we impact. Our approach is simple - to create an environment where everyone is welcome and able to be themselves. We celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications of all backgrounds and experiences.

Role Summary:

This role will be a unique opportunity to support the development of a nationally significant infrastructure project, reporting to the Correspondence Manager within the External Affairs function.Providing strategic legal support as well as correspondence support. Working closely with EWR Co's subject matter experts (in particular the Legal department) to coordinate and draft responses according to FOI and Correspondence management procedures and within service level agreement(s). Supporting the Head of External Engagement to act as a trusted advisor and critical friend to the EWR Co Board, Management Team and business.

Function:

The External Affairs function is accountable for defining what EWR Co. is, and the impact it will deliver. It is accountable for securing the required approvals to deliver the scheme, being the custodian of the DCO submission, including statutory consultation, and building a compelling business case. It will hold design and delivery to account to create an asset which will realises the economic benefits.

Key Responsibilities

Lead on the day-to-day caseload of information requests received under the Freedom of Information Act and Environmental Information Regulations, in compliance with statutory timeframes. You will also be required to assist in the recording and housekeeping of all correspondence, including FOI requests received by EWR Co. which are logged on Salesforce CRM system. Provide support in updating and maintaining EWR Co's Publication Scheme. To clarify, analyse and interpret information requests as well as correspondence enquiries to ensure accurate responses are given and liaising with colleagues as necessary, including writing draft responses. You will work closely with the Correspondence Manager to seek reviews and approvals for drafts. To give specialist advice to colleagues dealing with requests under the Freedom of Information Act and the Environment Information Regulations. Providing exemption and exception advice to colleagues for information requests and raising these with the Head of External Engagement as required. To assist with the reaction and preparation of information for release under the access to information legislation, ensuring the release of accurate and good quality information, and providing advice to EWR Co Staff when required. Keep abreast of developments in the field of information access, receiving training and disseminating information as appropriate. To work with correspondence executives to maintain a list of subject matter experts and store information for regular requests on the EWR Co lines to take application. Take responsibility of your own and others' health and safety by adopting and working to the EWR Co Health and Safety principles. Demonstrates a cost-conscious mindset, keeping taxpayers' money at the forefront of decisions. Shows a commitment to innovation by proactively seeking creative solutions to challenges and opportunities. Act as a role model for EWR Co's vision and behaviours, working in ways that are aligned with EWR Co's Ways of Working, as well as encouraging and supporting others to do so too.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

Extensive experience in handling and responding to requests under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), including application of relevant legislation and guidance such as the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) Code of Practice. Proven ability to redact documents and prepare disclosure schedules for proposed disclosures in accordance with legislation. Excellent analytical skills to assess information disclosures, alongside an understanding of modelling and forecasting. Theoretical and practical understanding of the Freedom of Information Act and the Environmental Information Regulations. Excellent written and verbal communication skills will be vital in this role, along with the ability to distil complex and technical material into key messages for different audiences. You should already be accustomed to managing and prioritising your work in response to competing demands and you should be able to foster positive relationships with colleagues across the organisation. Able to work unsupervised as well as being a team player, and to use initiative. To be discreet and able to maintain confidentiality.






Education and qualifications:A relevant qualification in Information or Records Management at degree level or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

What we offer:

Competitive base salary Up to 12% employer's pension contribution 36 days holiday a year (including bank holidays) + up to 2 days to buy Life assurance Employee Assistance Programme Access to a range of benefits on the Perkbox platform On-the-spot and annual awards Advanced learning and development programmes Great work-life balance and flexible working opportunities Enhanced family-friendly policies Exceptional IT tools


EWR Co strives to embrace a flexible working environment, where a degree of flexibility is maintained to accommodate both the needs and preferences of employees and what is required to achieve business objectives. EWR Co will always work with any individual to assess and accommodate an individual's work life balance and style.

Diversity and Inclusion:

To discover the best solutions, it's important we embrace diversity of thought. That's why we aim to ensure our colleagues feel included, engaged and valued. Inclusiveness is not a buzzword, but a way of being. Our approach to diversity is simple - a workplace where everyone is welcome and everyone is encouraged to be themselves. It helps fuel our innovation and connects us with the customers and communities we serve.



We are open to secondments through the Rail Industry Talent Exchange Programme.

About East West Rail

East West Railway Company is a new and exciting venture at the forefront of the changing landscape of the rail industry, delivering substantial fast-paced improvement to modernise the railway.