14 Years at Network Rail: From Curiosity to Leading Change
Reflecting on 14 years at Network Rail, this blog shares lessons in business change, digital transformation, and leading people through technology adoption.
Rochelle
5/17/20263 min read
Today marks 14 years since I joined Network Rail and it’s given me a moment to reflect on just how much can change when you stay curious, back yourself, and keep showing up.
Where it started
I began my career in the CIO’s office as a PA a role I chose very deliberately.
I wanted a front-row seat to leadership.
To the strategy.
To understand how technology decisions are really made at the top.
That early exposure shaped everything that followed.
A career that wasn’t linear but was intentional
My journey hasn’t been linear, but it has always been intentional.
I worked hard, took on secondments, built strong relationships, and continuously invested in learning. I said yes to opportunities that stretched me, even when I wasn’t entirely sure where they would lead.
Over time, those decisions opened the door into Business Change and digital adoption and that’s where I found my lane.
What started as curiosity about technology became a genuine passion for helping people navigate change with confidence.
From technology to people
Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to lead and support change across large-scale transformation programmes, including:
Microsoft 365 adoption at scale
Device deployments and modern workplace transformation
Intranet and collaboration platform rollouts
Enterprise-wide engagement, training, and digital enablement
These weren’t just technology programmes they were people journeys.
And that’s where the real work happens.
Moments I’m proud of
There are a few milestones along the way that stand out:
Delivering Microsoft 365 / modern workplace change for 30,000+ users
Supporting large-scale device deployments and adoption strategies
Leading change across Windows, security, and collaboration programmes
Building internal communities, including a Business Change & AI Network
But beyond the scale of the work, what matters most to me is the impact.
Building confidence, not just capability
My passion has always been rooted in technology and innovation but more importantly, in helping people feel confident using it.
Training, enablement, and digital confidence have been consistent themes throughout my career.
Because successful change isn’t just about rolling out new tools, it’s about ensuring people feel equipped, supported, and ready to use them.
The shift into AI
More recently, that passion has naturally expanded into AI.
Exploring how we can use emerging technologies responsibly, safely, and effectively in ways that genuinely support both people and organisations has become a key focus for me.
It’s not just about what AI can do.
It’s about how we help people adopt it with confidence.
Beyond the day job
Alongside my role, I’ve also built Tech Biz Toolkit a platform focused on practical, real-world insights into Business Change, digital transformation, and AI.
It’s an extension of everything I’ve learned over the past 14 years.
A space to share tools, ideas, and approaches that actually work in real delivery environments.
A mindset that made the difference
I’ve always believed in continuous self-learning, often investing in my own development, courses, and qualifications to stay ahead.
Because in a space that evolves as quickly as technology and change… standing still isn’t really an option.
What 14 years has taught me
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:
You don’t need a perfect roadmap.
You need curiosity, consistency, and the courage to keep learning.
Looking ahead
I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported, challenged, coached, and worked alongside me throughout this journey.
Every experience; the wins, the challenges, and everything in between has shaped who I am today.
And while 14 years is a milestone… it also feels like the beginning of the next chapter.
Here’s to whatever comes next.
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