adminHigh Speed Two (HS2) Limited, commonly known as HS2 Ltd, is the company responsible for developing and promoting the United Kingdom’s new high-speed rail network. Established on January 14, 2009, HS2 Ltd operates as a private limited company under the ownership of the UK Government. It functions as an executive non-departmental public body, receiving funding through government grants and being sponsored by the Department for Transport.
The primary mission of HS2 Ltd is to design and construct a high-speed railway that enhances connectivity between major UK cities including London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds. This ambitious infrastructure project aims to alleviate congestion on existing rail lines and promote economic growth across various regions.
HS2 Ltd’s headquarters are located in Birmingham, reflecting its commitment to regional development and the strategic importance of the Midlands in the project’s framework. The company has seen significant growth over the years, with its workforce expanding to over 2,000 employees as of 2023, encompassing a diverse range of professionals, from engineers and project managers to environmental specialists and community engagement officers.
The organizational structure of HS2 Ltd includes key leadership positions to ensure effective governance and project delivery. As of the latest available information, Mark Wild serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), bringing extensive experience in rail infrastructure to the role.
The company’s operations are overseen by a board of directors, which includes representatives from various sectors to provide strategic guidance and ensure alignment with national transportation objectives.
Throughout its development, HS2 Ltd has engaged in extensive planning and consultation processes to address environmental concerns, community impacts and economic considerations. The project has been subject to rigorous assessments and parliamentary approvals, reflecting its significance and the government’s commitment to modernizing the UK’s transportation infrastructure.
In summary, HS2 Ltd stands at the forefront of one of Europe’s largest infrastructure projects, aiming to transform the UK’s rail network by delivering faster, more efficient connections between key cities. Through its government-backed mandate and dedicated workforce, the company strives to enhance national mobility, support economic development and set new standards in rail travel.
Graduate Analyst Role at HS2 – Value for Money Team (London)
Annual Salary:
- £26,650 per year (plus 15% flexible allowance for London-based roles)
- Full-time position
Job Location:
- 1 Eversholt Street, London
- Travel to other HS2 offices or project sites may be required
High Speed 2 (HS2) is the UK’s ambitious infrastructure project designed to transform the country’s railway network by introducing a new high-speed rail system. This project aims to enhance connectivity between major cities, particularly London and Birmingham and is considered the most significant intercity railway development north of London in over a century.
HS2 is not only a transportation project but also a key driver of economic growth, job creation and regional development.
To support the success of this project, HS2 offers a variety of two-year rotational graduate programs that provide hands-on experience and professional development in different areas of the organization. These programs are designed to challenge and equip graduates with the skills necessary to contribute to Britain’s largest infrastructure project.
One of the key opportunities within HS2’s graduate program is available in the Value for Money Team, based in Euston, London. This team plays a crucial role in ensuring that public funds allocated to the HS2 project are utilized efficiently and that the project delivers maximum economic and societal benefits. Successful candidates may be required to travel to various HS2 offices or project sites to support different phases of the railway’s development.
Role of the Value for Money Team
The Value for Money Team serves as the primary source of economic and statistical analysis within HS2 Ltd. The team’s role is to provide crucial evidence and insights to support decision-making throughout key phases of the HS2 project. They focus on conducting thorough evaluations to ensure that the project remains financially viable and delivers long-term value.
Their key responsibilities include:
- Assessing value for money: The team is responsible for conducting economic evaluations to justify the investment in HS2 and ensure that financial resources are allocated effectively.
- Enhancing procurement and operational efficiency: By analyzing key investment and design decisions, the team helps optimize procurement processes and operational strategies.
- Demonstrating economic impact: Using economic theories and analytical insights, the team evaluates how HS2 will contribute to regional and national economic development.
- Developing advanced analytical tools: Creating and maintaining economic models to support accurate financial projections and evaluations.
- Monitoring project outcomes: Implementing a Benefits Management Strategy to track and report on the economic and social benefits realized through HS2’s development.
As a Graduate Analyst, you will contribute to these functions by conducting research, developing financial models and providing insights to senior decision-makers.
Key Responsibilities of a Graduate Analyst
As part of the graduate program, your role will involve applying analytical and economic methodologies to assess various aspects of HS2’s financial and operational performance. Your responsibilities will include:
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Delivering in-depth economic analysis:
- Conducting financial and economic evaluations to provide data-driven recommendations to HS2 Ltd and the Department for Transport (DfT).
- Adhering to best practices in quality assurance and ensuring that analysis is accurate, relevant and practical.
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Preparing reports and strategic documents:
- Drafting analytical reports, presentations and briefings for senior stakeholders.
- Ensuring that complex financial and economic findings are communicated clearly and effectively.
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Applying economic theories creatively:
- Using quantitative and qualitative techniques to evaluate various project aspects, such as cost-benefit analysis, economic impact studies and investment appraisals.
- Enhancing existing economic models as new information and methodologies emerge.
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Building strong stakeholder relationships:
- Collaborating with teams across HS2 Ltd and the Department for Transport to ensure evidence-based decision-making.
- Engaging with non-technical stakeholders and adapting communication styles to suit different audiences.
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Working across different analytical teams:
- Engaging with analysts in Benefits and Analysis to contribute to a shared evidence base.
- Ensuring consistency and accuracy across different workstreams.
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Promoting diversity and inclusion:
- Supporting HS2’s commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) by integrating EDI principles into all aspects of your work.
- Adhering to HS2’s EDI policies and contributing to a positive and inclusive workplace culture.
Rotational Placements in the Graduate Program
As part of the two-year rotation, graduate analysts will gain experience across multiple teams within HS2 including:
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Benefits and Revenues Modelling Team
- Conducting journey time savings analysis.
- Estimating user benefits of the HS2 project.
- Developing financial models to assess the economic return of infrastructure investments.
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Design and Delivery Analysis Team
- Evaluating operational costs and commercial viability.
- Assessing procurement strategies to ensure efficiency in delivery.
- Identifying potential revenue-generating opportunities.
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Benefits & Shareholder Relations Team
- Tracking HS2’s performance against key performance indicators (KPIs).
- Reporting on how well HS2 is achieving its strategic goals.
- Engaging with shareholders and funding bodies to communicate economic benefits.
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Sponsorship Team
- Acting as the key point of contact between HS2 Ltd and the Department for Transport.
- Managing relationships with government stakeholders.
- Ensuring alignment between HS2’s objectives and national transport policies.
Essential Skills and Competencies
To excel in this role, candidates should possess the following skills:
Technical and Analytical Skills:
- Strong ability to apply economic theories and analytical models to real-world infrastructure projects.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel including working with large datasets and using advanced functions to identify trends and patterns.
- Ability to conduct cost-benefit analysis and economic evaluations to support investment decisions.
Communication and Presentation Skills:
- Capable of translating complex economic analysis into clear, practical recommendations.
- Strong written communication skills, with the ability to prepare detailed reports and presentations for senior management.
- Ability to engage with stakeholders including non-specialist audiences and present data in an accessible format.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:
- Capable of evaluating complex information to provide insightful conclusions.
- Ability to respond flexibly and proactively to challenges.
- Strong strategic thinking skills to anticipate long-term impacts of economic policies and investment decisions.
Required Qualifications and Knowledge
To qualify for this graduate program, applicants must have:
- A minimum 2:2 Bachelor’s degree (or international equivalent) in Economics or a closely related numerate discipline (e.g., Mathematics, Statistics or Science).
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- A solid understanding of project appraisal methodologies, particularly in the public sector (e.g., HMT Green Book, DfT Transport Analysis Guidance).
- Knowledge of economic modeling and the ability to interpret financial data using Excel-based models.
HS2 is unable to provide sponsorship for candidates who do not already have ongoing, unrestricted Right to Work in the UK. This is due to the fact that HS2 Ltd does not hold a sponsorship license from the UK Home Office and applicants are not allowed to sponsor themselves.
If you are uncertain about your Right to Work status, you can contact HS2 at HS2Jobs@hs2.org.uk for further guidance. Early in the recruitment process, HS2 will verify all applicants’ Right to Work status to ensure compliance with UK Home Office policies.
Salary and Benefits
Graduate salaries for 2024 are currently under review. However, the expected pay structure for London-based roles includes:
- Base Salary: £26,650 per annum
- Additional Flexible Allowance: 15% of base salary
HS2 provides an excellent learning environment, professional mentorship and the opportunity to contribute to one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about HS2 Ltd and the Graduate Analyst Role
1. What is HS2 Ltd and what does it do?
HS2 Ltd is a government-owned company responsible for developing and delivering the High Speed Two (HS2) rail network, the UK’s largest infrastructure project. Its goal is to improve transport links between major cities, reduce travel time and enhance economic growth.
2. When was HS2 Ltd founded and who owns it?
HS2 Ltd was founded on January 14, 2009, as an executive non-departmental public body under the Department for Transport (DfT). It is entirely owned and funded by the UK Government.
3. Where is HS2 Ltd headquartered?
HS2 Ltd’s main headquarters is in Birmingham, with additional offices in London and Manchester.
4. Does HS2 Ltd offer visa sponsorship for international applicants?
No, HS2 Ltd does not provide visa sponsorship as it does not hold a sponsorship license from the UK Home Office. To be eligible for the graduate program, applicants must have the ongoing right to work in the UK, which is not time-bound in any way.
5. What is the salary for graduate analysts at HS2 Ltd?
For London-based roles, graduate analysts receive a base salary of £26,650 per year plus a 15% flexible allowance. Salary reviews may apply annually.
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