Chief Executive
Scottish Rail Holdings
Location: Glasgow
Salary: £140,000 - £160,000
Scottish Rail Holdings (SRH) is a limited company and public body in Scotland with accountability to Scottish Government Ministers for the delivery of rail passenger services in support of the Scottish Government’s objectives as set out in the National Transport Strategy. We are focused on delivering a safe, reliable, and green railway for our passengers and guests, while providing value for money for the taxpayer.
SRH has oversight of the governance and performance of two subsidiary train operating companies: ScotRail Trains Limited (ScotRail) and Caledonian Sleeper Limited (CSL). We are also part of a group of stakeholders known as Scotland’s Railway, which includes infrastructure manager Network Rail Scotland, cross border train operating companies, statutory bodies, and suppliers.
SRH commenced operations in April 2022, when ScotRail was taken into public ownership.
The Role
Our new Chief Executive will provide inspirational leadership and strategic direction for SRH and its subsidiaries. Working closely with the Chair and the SRH Board, the Chief Executive will ensure that all strategic and annual business plans are aligned to the Grant Agreement and the Framework Agreement, with a clear set of KPIs that subsidiaries will be accountable to deliver.
As Accountable Officer, personally answerable to Scottish Ministers, you will ensure that appropriate financial decisions are taken, and group risks and issues managed in line with the Scottish Public Finance Manual. You will also have various governance responsibilities for Scottish Rail Holdings, ScotRail Trains Limited, and Caledonian Sleeper Limited.
Crucial to the role will be collaboration within SRH and its subsidiaries, maintaining and securing partnerships across the industry to ensure best value for money on behalf of the Scottish Government, while delivering high-quality services.
We are looking for an exceptional leader for this role. A railway background is not essential, but you do need a proven track record in managing meaningful organisational transformation, leading teams, and achieving results. Senior level management experience in a large public sector or commercial organisation is essential.
The ideal candidate should possess the integrity, skills, and judgement to be a proactive member of the Board. You must be able to demonstrate a history of influencing and instigating positive change, emphasising a commitment to delivering high quality outcomes, and serving as a creative change agent. We are seeking an empathetic and understanding forward thinking strategist. You should also be a key team player who can cultivate strong relationships both internally and externally.
Further information and details of how to apply is available at https://aspenpeople.co.uk/srh
For a confidential discussion about the post, please contact Catriona Mackie or Katharine Price at our recruitment partners, Aspen People, on 0141 212 7555.
Closing date for applications: Thursday, 28th March 2024
To apply, please upload your CV and supporting statement (combined in one document) via the apply button.