Network Rail managers take the right track : Development programs help to change the organizational culture

Purpose – This paper aims to examine the role of management training in helping to transform the organizational culture at Network Rail. Design/methodology/approach – Details such programs as Leadership Skills II, Foundation Management Skills, Practical Leadership, Leadership Toolkit e‐learning, Stepping Stones and the MSc in project management. Findings – Contends that the programs are helping Network Rail to achieve inspirational leadership, not merely efficient management. Practical implications – Highlights the way in which, every year, Network Rail focuses on providing the skills its managers need in order to deliver the business plan. Originality/value – Describes how Network Rail has successfully teamed up with a number of organizations – including the University of Warwick and Sheffield Hallam University – to meet its management‐development needs.