Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Specialist

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Specialist

Location

Blackfriars, GB

Department Name

Southern Region - People and Transformation

About Network Rail

Join Network Rail - Where People and Connections Matter

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. Click here to learn more.

We're committed to creating a diverse, inclusive workplace that reflects the communities we serve. To discover more about our ED&I commitments click here. 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.

If you're ready to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you!

Brief Description

Inclusion is not a slogan here. It is how we work.

At Network Rail, equity, diversity and inclusion shape how we lead, how we make decisions and how we support one another. Our Everyone Belongs strategy puts people at the centre of change and focuses on building a workplace where difference is valued and everyone feels able to thrive.

We are proud of the progress we have made, including a 20 per cent increase in women in management and leadership roles and a 20 per cent increase in Black, Asian and minority ethnic colleagues since 2019. We also know there is more to do.

If you care about fairness, dignity and belonging and you can turn plans into delivery, this is a role where your work will have visible impact.

About the role (External)

What you will do

You will deliver a range of equity, diversity and inclusion projects across Network Rail Southern Region, bringing structure, pace and clear reporting so progress is understood and action can be taken when needed.

You will:

• Lead and manage EDI projects that build a diverse, representative workforce and support a culture where people can thrive and innovate
• Produce and maintain clear project plans, agree deliverables and report progress to key stakeholders
• Manage the full project lifecycle including tracking, reporting, prioritisation, risks and issues, benefits and interdependencies
• Lead communications that help colleagues understand what is changing, why it matters and the difference it is making
• Support HR Business Partners and regional and functional leaders to understand EDI implications, manage risks and compliance and deliver local initiatives
• Build strong networks across the business to enable collaboration and successful delivery on the ground

What we are looking for

We are looking for someone who brings both credibility and warmth. Someone who is comfortable working with data and senior stakeholders, and who can also connect with people and bring them with you.

Essential experience and skills:

• Experience working in an EDI role within a large or matrix organisation
• Successful project management experience
• Experience delivering communication activities or campaigns
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills across different levels
• Ability to analyse and interpret data to inform reporting and insight
• Strong organisational skills, able to manage multiple workstreams to tight timescales
• Motivation to improve outcomes for passengers and employees

Desirable:

• Report writing experience
• Experience working in a unionised environment
• Strong IT skills including Excel and PowerPoint
• A project management qualification

Why Network Rail

You will be joining an organisation that is actively building inclusive capability at all levels and supporting colleagues to bring their whole selves to work.

You will also be able to connect with support and community through our employee networks, including Inspire, our gender equality network, Cultural Fusion, CanDo, Archway, Family Focus, Multi-faith, Care and Armed Forces.

We run learning and allyship opportunities including monthly EDI allyship sessions and Allies for Inclusion sessions, developed with Inspire and WISE, to share women's experiences and promote respect and inclusivity.

We want to hear from women and candidates from underrepresented backgrounds

We know that confidence gaps and life circumstances can stop talented people from applying. If you meet most of what we are looking for, we would encourage you to apply. Your lived experience and perspective can be part of what makes you great in this role.

Adjustments and accessibility

If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, we will work with you to support your needs.

How to apply (External)

Salary: £46,701 to £55,411 plus £3,270 London Office Allowance

The salary package also includes:

• 75% off rail travel for you and your partner
• Public sector boosted pension
• Private healthcare
• Annual performance based bonus

Closing date: 8th May 2026. - Late applications will not be accepted.

Click apply now to apply.

This role requires working in the office minimum of 3 days per week.

What does our recruitment process look like?

1. Once you have applied, our Recruitment Specialist will look at your CV.
2. If your experience matches what we're looking for, you'll be invited to an interview

You can visit Evenbreaks Career Hive for advice on accessibility support if you're unsure of the options available. Should you require any reasonable adjustments/modifications, please add a note to your application.

Network Rail Benefits - To find out about what benefits we offer, click here

All offers of employment are conditional upon satisfactory completion of pre-employment checks. Click here for more information

***Some of our roles require face to face Drugs & Alcohol testing. Further details will be shared with you as part of your formal offer.****