A graduate’s perspective: an insight into rail freight

As my time on the Network Rail Operations Management Graduate Scheme comes to an end, I’ve had the privilege of completing my final placement with Team Railfreight. This opportunity, facilitated by the Policy and Advocacy team, has given me a deeper understanding of the rail freight industry and its crucial role in the wider transport network.

Since joining Network Rail in September 2023, I’ve worked across various areas of the industry, from frontline operations in stations and control, to project management environments. These experiences have been instrumental in preparing me for my next step—taking on the role of Performance Improvement Co-ordinator. My placement with Team Railfreight has been a particular highlight, providing hands-on involvement in projects that support the sector’s growth and development.

One of my key tasks was conducting data analysis for Transport for Greater Manchester to assess freight flows in the region. This work helped to quantify the environmental benefits of rail freight and examine the range of traction types operating on the network. The findings reinforced the significant contribution freight makes to sustainability efforts and the wider economy. Additionally, I played a role in future Great British Railways freight process design, organising workshops where industry experts collaborated on shaping a priority process to facilitate freight growth. With ambitious targets of 7.5% growth by the end of CP7 and a 75% increase by 2050, it is essential that robust processes are in place to integrate freight efficiently within the rail network.

Another key area of my placement involved analysing the performance of new freight services introduced under the new CP7 ‘track access discount scheme’. Adding more trains to the network may introduce risks to performance. However, a review into these new services demonstrates that they are operating efficiently, contributing positively to overall performance metrics. This experience has been invaluable in preparing me for my new role, where I will continue to engage with freight performance at a route level. The placement has reinforced the importance of freight within the broader rail industry and the ongoing efforts to support its expansion.

I would highly recommend the graduate schemes offered by Network Rail for the diverse and rewarding experiences they provide. As we move into a period of rail reform, understanding the needs and priorities of freight is more critical than ever. My time with Team Railfreight has underscored this, and as I transition into my new role, I’ll carry forward the key lessons learned—above all, that freight is great.

By Matthew Terry, Network Rail