Closing Date for Applications

17th July 2026 

Salary Scale: £50,786 - £60,000 per annum

What is the purpose of this job?

To deliver high-impact public affairs and stakeholder engagement activity that supports RDG’s strategic priorities, builds advocacy for the reforming rail industry, and strengthens relationships with senior political, government and industry stakeholders.

The role will play a senior part in shaping RDG’s external engagement, providing strategic advice to the Head of Stakeholder Engagement and senior leaders across RDG. The role will be responsible for managing complex political and stakeholder issues across the rail sector whilst managing the day-to-day duties of the public affairs function.

What can I expect to do in this job? 

An overview of key responsibilities is outlined below but are not limited to:

• Support the development and delivery of public affairs and stakeholder engagement strategies for priority policy areas, ensuring alignment with RDG’s corporate objectives and wider industry priorities.
• Build, maintain and deepen senior-level relationships with MPs, peers, government departments, officials, devolved administrations and key third-party stakeholders.
• Provide strategic counsel and expert advice to the Director of Communications and Head of Stakeholder engagement. When required, provide this support for senior RDG figures on behalf of Head of Stakeholder Engagement.
• Produce high quality briefings and correspondence for meetings, events and evidence sessions.
• Manage all MP correspondence that is received by RDG working with industry colleagues to provide timely and accurate information.
• Monitor and analyse political developments, legislation and policy proposals, providing timely insight and recommendations to RDG members and internal stakeholders.
• Work alongside RDG policy team on the monitoring and engagement of the Railways Bil.
• Provide strategic guidance and support for communications colleagues to shape and deliver advocacy campaigns that build support for RDG priorities, working closely with communications, policy and external partners.
• Identify and secure opportunities for RDG and industry leaders to engage at external events, conferences and forums, ensuring consistent and impactful messaging.
• Be an advocate for the railway and be a senior member of the RDG communications team, providing direction and support to colleagues and members.
• Work collaboratively across RDG directorates to embed stakeholder and political considerations into wider organisational activity.
• Support the Head of Stakeholder Engagement with planning, prioritisation and continuous improvement of the team’s work.

Who will my key contacts be?

• Director of Communications, Head of Stakeholder Engagement, Head of Strategic Communications and Head of Media.
• Senior RDG colleagues including members of the RDG’s Executive team.
• RDG members from across Train Operating Companies (TOCs) and Network Rail as well as Department for Transport Operated Ltd (DFTO).
• Politicians and political staffers including relevant select committees and representatives from local authorities.

Requirements

What experience, skills and knowledge do I need?

Required:

• Significant experience in public affairs, stakeholder engagement or government relations, ideally within a complex, regulated or membership-based environment.
• Proven ability to engage credibly with senior political and stakeholder audiences and influence decision-makers.
• Strong understanding of UK political and parliamentary processes, including legislation and scrutiny.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience drafting for senior leaders.

Desirable:

• Experience working in or alongside the transport, infrastructure or public policy sectors.
• Experience of leading or coordinating advocacy campaigns across multiple stakeholders.

Benefits

Why Work for RDG?

We offer a highly competitive package, including:

• 75% discount on rail travel (for work and leisure), plus international rail discounts
• 30 Days annual leave (plus buy/sell options and additional leave for key life events)
• Two Personal Development Days are granted to employees annually
• Interest-free Season Ticket Loan for commuting costs
• Enhanced family leave – 30 weeks full pay for maternity, adoption, surrogacy, and shared parental leave
• Pension scheme – up to 8.64% employer contribution
• Subsidised Private Medical Insurance (Vitality PPP) and Health Cash Plan (Healthshield)
• Access to our flexible benefits portal - a central hub for accessing retail discounts, shopping, dining, travel, and entertainment perks
• Flexible working arrangements available