Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail
RAIL SYSTEMS DIRECTOR
CAPITAL INVESTMENTS DIVISION
Role & Purpose Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail (IÉ) is at the forefront of Ireland’s sustainable transport network, driving growth through a €10bn+ nationwide programme of capital investments projects. Our mission is to almost double the current carrying capacity for passengers by 2030, expand the role of rail freight, and develop Rosslare Europort. Funded by the Department of Transport (DoT), the National Transport Authority (NTA), and the European Union (EU), IÉ is central to national and regional transport and environmental policies. Key Responsibilities Accountable for the “Future Railway” including gaining necessary authorisations for bringing the railway into service, including obtaining safety authorisation approval from the Commission for Rail Regulation. Accountable for the integration capability and the systems integration model to be deployed during construction and for the end state railway to be delivered into service. Accountable for the active monitoring of risks, issues and challenges that will impact on the effective delivery of the railway into service. Manage the strategic project delivery and operational relationship between ‘Track’ and ‘Train’, i.e. delivering an integrated systems railway that delivers the project objectives on behalf of the customer, the end users, and the project funders. Lead and direct all activities for CI in relation to the use of railway systems in CI programmes and projects, including how they are integrated and how they interface with other technical departments. Provide leadership within CI for the overall delivery and success of all rolling stock fleet investment programmes. To lead the System Engineering disciplines, providing clear technical and engineering leadership, setting standards and requirements for Capital Investments and ensuring these are effectively integrated and discharged through the supply chain. Build and develop good collaborative relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders, seeking consensus across all groups and co-creating solutions to any technical and interface challenges that may arise. Take the lead on managing the CI business unit’s collaborative relationship with the Infrastructure Manager (IM) and Railway Undertaking (RU) / Train Operations business units, in relation to bringing new capital investments projects into service. Explore and incorporate best practice, innovations and industry developments across the organisation including new technologies and new ways of working. Provide advice and guidance, acting as a Shadow Operator, to the technical teams on programmes and projects on design, development and implementation of major programmes of work that will deliver new or changed operating conditions. Drive a culture of railway safety across all projects and programmes. Create a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration across the team. Stay informed on industry trends, regulatory changes, and market conditions that may impact the technical aspects of the projects and programmes. Be a role model in the application of corporate values and contribute to embedding them in the culture of the organisation. Manage, mentor, and develop technical teams, ensuring the highest standards of professional performance. Desirable Qualifications Strong leadership skills with the ability to build cross-functional relationships and drive organisational change. Multi-disciplinary design and delivery experience of complex infrastructure projects with significant systems and mechanical/electrical scope. Significant experience in operational readiness of major infrastructure projects, including systems integration. Proven experience in leading customer service-oriented operations. Strong knowledge of industry regulations and standards for large-scale infrastructure projects. Exceptional interpersonal skills with credibility and influencing skills at all levels, including Board and industry stakeholders. Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and influencing skills. Expert analytical and strategic skills, with a track record of driving business results. Proven ability to lead and manage teams across multiple locations. Competencies Bachelor’s degree in engineering. Professional certification in a relevant discipline. Join Iarnród Éireann Irish Rail and be part of a transformative journey that will shape the future of Ireland’s transport network. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a dynamic team and make a significant impact on the nation’s infrastructure. To discuss your interest and for further information on this role, please contact Newsom Consulting. The closing date for applications is Friday 25th April 2025. Please click the ‘Apply’ button to submit your application.