Helen joined Network Rail in 2004 following the completion of a Doctorate at Imperial College, London. In the subsequent 15 years, she has been involved in cross industry strategic and business planning.  As Strategy & Planning Director (Network) within the System Operator she works closely with customers and regions to identify the opportunities to deliver improvements for end users. The network wide remit of the role includes leading Network Strategies – (eg the Traction Decarbonisation Network Strategy); leading the interface between funders and arms length bodies and the regions on network wide programmes (eg Restore Your Railway) and leading the Strategic Planning profession across the Network, including providing assurance that Network Rail discharges its license condition to carry out Long Term Planning.