Job Description

At Network Rail, we're dedicated to keeping passengers and freight moving safely and efficiently across the country. When you join us, you're not just part of a team - you're part of something that matters to millions. We believe that our people are at the heart of what we do, and every role plays a vital part in building a better, more connected railway.
We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments We value flexibility and understand the importance of a healthy work-life balance. As a Disability Confident Leader, we'll do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout the recruitment process. You can visit for advice on accessibility support.
If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!
Vacancy Details
Duration: Permanent.
Location: This role is based in London Waterloo General Offices. This role is a full-time opportunity with a minimum of 3 days in the office; flexible working patterns will be considered.
Band & Salary: Band 3B (46,701 - 61,570)
Brief Description
Reporting to the Head of Corporate Communications, you'll lead the development and delivery of executive engagement strategies that build trust with external stakeholders and enhance Network Rail's external reputation.
You'll work closely with the Executive Leadership Team - including the CEO - to shape external messaging, provide strategic counsel, and deliver high-impact communications that reflect the organisation's vision and priorities.
This role is pivotal in ensuring our senior leaders are confident, credible, and well-prepared for public engagements, helping to position Network Rail as a trusted and forward-looking organisation.
About the role (External)
About the team...
The Corporate Communications team leads strategic communications across Network Rail, including media relations, public relations, and executive engagement. It ensures 24/7 crisis readiness, supports senior leadership with speechwriting and briefings, and promotes the organisation's reputation through targeted PR strategies.
What does the average day look like?
As Senior Executive Engagement Manager, you will play a pivotal role in supporting how Network Rail's most senior leaders engage with external audiences. Working closely with the Head of Corporate Communications-who leads the relationship with the Executive Leadership Team-you will help shape and deliver engagement strategies that align with our corporate priorities and strengthen the organisation's reputation.
This role provides strategic counsel and hands-on support to ensure senior leaders are well-prepared, confident, and effective in their public engagements. You will lead on the development of high-impact communications, including speeches, briefings, presentations and Q&A materials, ensuring consistency and clarity across all executive messaging.
You will also coordinate high-profile engagement opportunities, maintaining a strategic calendar of speaking engagements and stakeholder interactions that are timed to maximise visibility and influence. Your work will help showcase Network Rail's achievements and reinforce its position as a trusted and forward-looking organisation.
Stakeholder mapping and relationship management will be central to your remit. You will identify and track key individuals and organisations for executive engagement, tailoring approaches to build trust, gain support for initiatives, and mitigate reputational risks. Your ability to foster meaningful connections will be instrumental in advancing Network Rail's strategic objectives.
Who are we looking for?
We're seeking a confident, strategic communicator with a track record in executive engagement and stakeholder management. You'll be a trusted advisor to senior leaders, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and deliver consistent messaging that supports Network Rail's strategic objectives.
This role requires the successful candidate to hold, or be able to obtain, National Security Vetting (NSV) clearance.
Essential Criteria
Significant experience in speechwriting and stakeholder management
Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to build trust with senior stakeholders
Strong track record of managing strategic relationships at senior levels
Sound judgement, political awareness, and resilience under pressure
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Strong project management and organisational skills
Collaborative approach and ability to work across organisational boundaries
Please see attached job description for full details.
How to apply (External)
If you require any support with your application, please click here for contact details.All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information Some of our great benefits:? Flexible/hybrid working arrangements considered.? Generous annual leave (28 days plus statutory days), with the option to buy/sell days.? Discounts at stations with your Network Rail pass. Defined benefit pension scheme? 75% subsidy on train tickets.?? Interest-free travel loan for train and car park season tickets.?? Volunteer leave to make a positive impact.Plus more....

Skills Required