Professional Head – Network Asset Management

Overview

The Professional Head – Network Asset Management develops and leads the Company's strategic asset management framework for fixed railway infrastructure, establishing asset policies, lifecycle strategies, performance objectives and long-term investment planning in accordance with recognised asset management principles.

Acting as the Technical Authority for network asset management, the role establishes the Strategic Asset Management Plan, asset information strategy and asset performance framework aligned with ISO 55001, ensuring whole‑life value, risk‑based decision making and sustainable asset stewardship across track, civils, structures, systems and facilities.

The position supports asset handover from the delivery contractors, establishes the asset register and asset information systems, and ensures asset management readiness for Entry into Service.

Prior to commercial operations, the role will focus on operational readiness activities in respect of network asset management as determined by the Operational Readiness Plan.

• Develop the Company asset management policy, Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP) and asset management objectives aligned with ISO 55001 principles.
• Establish lifecycle strategies, asset class plans and whole‑life cost models for fixed infrastructure assets.
• Define asset criticality, risk‑based decision‑making frameworks and investment prioritisation approaches.

• Establish the asset information strategy, asset data standards and the network asset register.
• Lead the implementation of enterprise asset management (EAM) systems and integration with maintenance and operational systems.
• Ensure quality, completeness and governance of asset data from handover through operations.

• Establish asset performance frameworks, KPIs and condition/degradation monitoring approaches.
• Develop long‑term renewal and enhancement plans, supporting budget development and investment cases.
• Coordinate with maintenance delivery functions to align asset strategies, maintenance regimes and interventions.

• Oversee the preparation and implementation of operational readiness strategies and plans related to network asset management, including asset register readiness and handover data acceptance.
• Coordinate operational readiness activities including testing, commissioning support, trial operations, training and resource mobilisation in line with the Operational Readiness Plan.
• Ensure that all systems, processes and procedures within the area of responsibility are fully functional, validated and compliant with safety and performance requirements ahead of Entry into Service.

• Act as the focal point for internal and external stakeholders on all matters related to strategic asset management.
• Facilitate seamless communication and interface management between internal teams, contractors, suppliers and external partners.
• Ensure alignment of deliverables with stakeholder expectations, contractual obligations and regulatory requirements.

• Identify potential risks and issues impacting operational readiness and steady‑state operations within the area of responsibility.
• Develop mitigation plans and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Maintain the relevant risk registers and report regularly to senior management on status, progress and emerging risks.

• Establish quality benchmarks and ensure compliance with applicable industry standards and Company management system requirements.
• Conduct reviews and audits to identify lessons learned and implement improvements for future initiatives.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, data‑driven decision making and operational excellence.

• Lead, develop and manage the asset management team and asset information resources, ensuring the right structure, capability and capacity to deliver.
• Develop team capabilities through training, coaching and mentorship, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and excellence.
• Ensure clear communication between teams, management and stakeholders to align on objectives and deliver results.

• Ensure adherence to regulatory, safety and environmental requirements across all asset management activities.
• Drive a strong safety culture, supporting audits, inspections and the close‑out of corrective actions.
• Support the development and maintenance of the Company Operations Safety Case, safety management system and associated assurance processes.