UK | Infrastructure & Transport Consulting
our client
Our client is a specialist UK consulting firm focused on critical national infrastructure, with deep expertise across rail, aviation and utilities in particular. The organisation partners with executive teams and operational leaders to deliver meaningful, large-scale transformation programmes that improve how the UK works.
The culture is entrepreneurial, non-hierarchical and delivery-focused. Consultants operate as trusted partners within client teams, combining strategic thinking with hands-on execution. The Rail practice is well established, with a strong reputation and long-standing relationships in complex, regulated environments.
Due to sustained demand and a strong pipeline of work, the firm is seeking an experienced Senior Manager to join its Rail practice.
The opportunity
The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering multi-year transformation initiatives across the rail industry. Engagements are typically embedded within client teams carrying out advisory work and delivering complex programmes such as:
- Programme and project delivery within complex rail environments
- Operational and customer-focused transformation initiatives
- Data-enabled performance improvement in infrastructure settings
- Capital planning and delivery within regulated, safety-critical contexts
You will be expected to bring structured problem solving, consulting discipline and executive-level communication to operationally critical transformation initiatives.
the role
As a Senior Manager, you will:
- Lead workstreams within large-scale rail transformation programmes
- Operate independently within client organisations
- Manage senior stakeholders across functions
- Oversee delivery teams and ensure high-quality execution
- Support account growth through credibility, delivery excellence and executive engagement
- Contribute to shaping follow-on opportunities within existing programmes
A proven sales track record is not required at this level; however, the successful candidate will demonstrate commercial awareness and the potential to contribute to future business development.
- 6+ years’ experience in management consultancy and an ability to operate autonomously within client teams
- A strong track record of delivery in regulated infrastructure sectors including some Rail experience
- Strong stakeholder management in politically and operationally sensitive environments
- Demonstrable programme or project management capability in complex, multi-stakeholder settings
- Commercial awareness and executive communication skills
Additional experience that would strengthen your application:
- Exposure to capital programme environments
- Experience in data-led transformation within infrastructure
- Knowledge of regulated or safety-critical industries
- A blend of industry and consulting experience
Culture & Environment
The firm operates with an entrepreneurial, non-hierarchical culture and a strong focus on collaboration. It works extensively across UK infrastructure and attracts individuals motivated by delivering tangible improvements to nationally significant systems.
This environment will appeal to those who value autonomy, accountability and close-knit team dynamics over large corporate structures.
Career path & compensation
The Senior Manager role provides a clear pathway toward Associate Director for individuals who demonstrate:
- Consistent delivery excellence
- Executive-level credibility
- The ability to strengthen and expand client relationships over time
- There is flexibility to work across infrastructure sub-sectors where relevant.
- Compensation circa £65,000–£85,000 base
Blue Astral is the strategic search partner supporting this hire. We have worked closely with the firm through its growth and have placed a number of senior individuals into the practice. Our long-standing relationship provides us with a detailed understanding of its leadership, culture and progression trajectory.
For a confidential discussion and additional insight beyond this brief, please click apply and attach your CV – we will then reach out and arrange an introductory call.