Job Description
Head of Corporate Affairs
London Bridge (Hybrid - 3 days onsite)
My client is one of Britain's busiest train operators, running 1,700+ services a day across London, Kent and East Sussex, connecting 500,000+ passengers and 180 stations.
They are about more than getting people from A to B. They are about the moments that make journeys better and for their customers and colleagues.
They're proud to be recognised as:
- A Great Place to Work (National Rail Awards 2023)
- A WORK180 Employer for Women
They are looking for a strategic Head of Corporate Affairs to define their story, strengthen their reputation, and influence how millions of people perceive a brand. If you know how to build trust, lead in a crisis and turn complex issues into compelling narrative, this role could be exactly what you're looking for.
You will sit at the heart of their Communications & Stakeholder Leadership team, shaping how they engage with customers, government, media and communications
This is a high-impact role where your work will directly support their journey towards Great British Railways and ensure their voice is confident, credible and heard.
Key Responsibilities
- Setting and leading their Corporate Affairs strategy
- Owning their external narrative across media, public affairs, digital, and campaigns
- Building strong, influential relationships with government, industry partners and stakeholders
- Acting as a trusted adviser to senior leaders and the Executive team
- Leading communications during incidents and crises with calm authority
- Developing and inspiring a high-performing, multi-disciplinary team
- Ensuring all communications are aligned with governance and contractual requirements
Key Requirements
You're a confident, experienced leader who knows how to make an impact:
- Reputation builder - experienced in managing scrutiny and enhancing brand trust
- Relationship expert - able to influence at senior government and industry level
- Crisis leader - calm, credible and decisive when it matters most
- Natural storyteller - able to turn complexity into clear, compelling messaging
- Inspiring leader - experienced in building and developing high-performing teams
- Commercial thinker - understands governance, value for money, and accountability
- Integrated communicator - confident across media, digital, stakeholder engagement and campaigns
Benefits
Alongside a competitive salary, you'll receive:
- Final salary pension
- 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
- Free rail travel across their network
- A role where you can truly shape the future of UK rail communications
