Case study

Network Rail

Building reputation and confidence through effective engagement

Since September 2021, Lexington has provided external affairs support and senior counsel to Network Rail. Recognising that a public body cannot lobby, our brief is to provide strategic advice and tactical engagement support to enhance its stakeholder engagement and communications strategy.

A more proactive stakeholder communications approach has contributed to improved satisfaction ratings amongst MPs over the last 12 months.

Key Achievements:

✔ Strengthened regional stakeholder relationships

Organised high-profile visits for CEO Andrew Haines to key cities, including Manchester, Birmingham, Bradford, Leeds, and Darlington, to engage with regional mayors and industry leaders. For each visit, Lexington conducted regional research to ensure messaging aligned with local priorities.

✔ Showcased Network Rail’s role in transport decarbonisation – Supported stakeholder engagement ahead of COP26, partnering with Porterbrook to highlight the HydroFLEX hydrogen-powered train.

Visitors to the train included the Prime Minister, Prince Charles, and key community groups from across Scotland.

✔ Enhanced strategic communications

Provided senior-level counsel to shape Network Rail’s external affairs approach, ensuring it remains aligned with government priorities and industry expectations.