Head of Rail Programme

Are you ready to make a tangible impact in suicide prevention while working with a dynamic and passionate team? Samaritans is looking for a Head of Rail Programme to lead our flagship partnership with Network Rail and the wider rail industry.

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• £63,000-£67,000 per annum plus benefits 

• Permanent contract 

• Full-time role - 35 hours per week with flexible working

• Hybrid working: Linked to either our Ewell (Surrey) office or home-based contract, with regular travel around London and the South East

• In-person working: Meeting in person and working collaboratively are things we value. Staff are expected to work in person around 2 days per month.

• We are passionate about flexible working, talk to us about your preferences.

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Why This Role?

As the Head of Rail Programme, you’ll:

• Manage and mentor a talented team of 12, with opportunities to shape strategies and ensure ongoing improvement.

• Spearhead the delivery of a nationally significant suicide prevention programme.

• Be the operational and programme management lead, overseeing innovative projects and events.

• Work with key rail industry stakeholders, including British Transport Police and Train Operating Companies.

• Drive multi-channel behaviour change campaigns that save lives.

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This role will be exposed to emotionally challenging material and data relating to suicide and self-harm, including personal individual lived experience, which can be traumatic. You’ll receive training and support throughout your time at Samaritans to manage the demands of the role, but it’s important to be sure that this role is right for you.

What You'll Bring:

• A proven track record in leading high-performing, cross-functional teams.

• Exceptional skills in stakeholder management within complex organisations.

• Experience in managing large programmes, budgets, and contracts.

• A passion for mental health and suicide prevention.

• Strong leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving capabilities.

• Knowledge of the rail industry is a plus, but not essential.​

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What We Offer:

• A role that combines leadership, purpose, and challenge.

• Opportunities to influence change in mental health and safety across the rail industry.

• A chance to work with a committed, supportive organisation with a shared vision of fewer lives lost to suicide.

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Working at Samaritans

For further information about Samaritans, including our charity structure, values, employee benefits, and application process, please read our recruitment brochure.

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Being Inclusive  

We recognise the enormous benefits and the social justice imperatives of ensuring diversity at every level of our organisation. Samaritans is wholly committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture and environment where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are. To ensure Samaritans is representative of those we support and who support us, we particularly welcome applications from Disabled, BAME and LGBTQ+ candidates, as these people are under-represented at Samaritans.  

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Application 

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, please upload your CV and a cover letter (2 page max), outlining your motivations for applying and your transferable skills and experience. Applications close at 9 am on Monday 3 March, with first stage video interviews likely w/c 10 March. 

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Whilst we appreciate that the use of generative AI functions like ChatGPT is quickly becoming part of working life for many people, through our recruitment process we want to see your own unique ideas and writing skills. We want your application to stand out from the rest and showcase your own strengths. Therefore, we kindly ask that you don’t rely on AI tools for your application answers, cover letter or to generate interview answers.  

Apply today and make a real difference to people’s lives.