Head of Rail Systems Assurance

IKOS Consulting UK is seeking an experienced Head of Rail Systems Assurance to provide strategic leadership and governance across complex, safety‑critical rail programmes. This is a senior leadership role with real influence, shaping assurance strategy across multi‑disciplinary rail systems including infrastructure, rolling stock, signalling, power and operations.

The Role

Reporting directly to the COO, you will lead and own the rail systems assurance strategy, ensuring designs, integrations and operations meet the highest safety, technical, regulatory and performance standards.

You’ll provide expert oversight across:

• Systems assurance, safety, RAMS, EMC and human factors
• Compliance with key rail standards (e.g. EN 50126/8/9, CSM‑RA, ROGS)
• Independent assessment interfaces (ISA, NoBo, DeBo, AsBo)
• Whole‑system risk management from concept through to commissioning

You’ll also act as a key interface with clients, regulators, operators and suppliers, providing clear executive‑level reporting on assurance status, risks and mitigations.

Leadership & Impact

This role includes building, leading and developing a high‑performing Systems Assurance team, championing safety culture, professional development and continuous improvement across the organisation.

About You

You’re a credible, influential rail assurance leader with:

• 10+ years’ experience in Rail Systems Engineering, Safety, RAMS or Assurance
• Proven leadership on major rail programmes (infrastructure, signalling, rolling stock or digital systems)
• Deep knowledge of systems engineering and assurance principles (V‑cycle, integration, verification & validation)
• A strong track record delivering Safety Cases and technical assurance for complex, safety‑critical systems
• Experience working with regulatory bodies and independent assessors
• You’ll be calm under pressure, integrity‑driven, highly organised and confident communicating complex technical issues at executive level.

What’s on Offer

• Senior, high‑impact leadership role
• Opportunity to shape assurance strategy across nationally significant rail programmes
• Hybrid working
• Competitive salary and an excellent benefits package

Interested?

If you’re ready to lead assurance at a system‑wide level and make a meaningful impact on rail safety and performance, we’d love to hear from you.