Head of IT & Systems

We are proud to be One Team at East Midlands Railway (EMR). We are passionate about keeping people safe, delighting our customers, doing the right thing and putting customers at the heart of our sustainable railway for the East Midlands. With over 30 million passengers served every year and a dedicated team of colleagues, we’re transforming how we work through technology, data and innovation. 

We are now seeking a Head of IT & Systems to lead the IT function and play a key role in shaping EMR’s digital and technology strategy. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced IT leader to drive transformation, develop system resilience, enhance performance and enable our business to thrive in a digital world.

The Role

As Head of IT & Systems, you will be responsible for the strategic direction, operational delivery and performance of EMR’s entire IT and systems estate. You will lead a talented team and work closely with senior leaders across the business to ensure technology, data and systems enable operational success and business growth.

Key accountabilities include:

Leadership of IT operations, infrastructure, cloud services, networks and systems supportDevelopment and execution of the IT strategy aligned to EMR’s business prioritiesOversight of cyber security, information security, risk, GDPR and resilience frameworksManagement of VFM supplier partnerships and technology budgetsDelivery of technology change and improvement programmesProvision of trusted data, reporting and insight to support business decision-makingBusiness partnering to raise IT performance and responsiveness

Key Responsibilities

Provide visible and effective leadership to the IT & Systems function, inspiring high performance and collaborationChampion digital transformation and adopt best-practice approaches to technology deploymentEnsure the reliability, performance and security of all IT systems and infrastructureDefine and implement cyber security and data protection strategiesLead the delivery of IT change projects, ensuring robust governance and delivery on time and on budgetPromote business partnering and ensure stakeholder needs are fully understood, prioritised and metManage, motivate and develop colleagues to build capability and resilience across the function

About You

Degree educated, BSc/BA in computer science, management or equivalent experienceSignificant senior IT leadership experience in a complex operational environmentBroad technical knowledge across systems, infrastructure, cloud, data, security and support functionsStrong stakeholder management skills and the ability to influence at all levelsExperience of managing large technical budgets and supplier relationshipsProven experience leading digital transformation and delivering technology changeExcellent communication skills with the ability to make complex technology issues accessible to non-technical audiences

What We Offer

Excellent defined benefit pension scheme Competitive annual leave allowance with progression after tenure Flexible working arrangements Free first-class travel on EMR services Free and discounted travel for you, family and dependants Access to employee benefits and discount schemes Opportunities for training and development 

 

How to Apply

Complete the online application and upload your CV. Please remove personal details (including your name) as we operate a blind screening process. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to equal opportunities for all.

Closing Date: 16 Jan 2026

Department: Managerial/Administration

Salary: Circa 91,000 Dependent upon experiencce