Rail Baltica is a railway infrastructure megaproject that spans across several countries. The depth of skills and expertise required to successfully execute a greenfield project of this caliber is extensive and would not be possible without our diverse team of professionals.
Welcome back to our series, “Rail Baltica: The People Behind the Vision,” where we introduce you to the members of the Rail Baltica global project team. These individuals are the driving force advancing the Rail Baltica project with their professionalism, dedication, and passion for this project.
Agnese Razgaite-Strode, Investment Development Coordinator, RB Rail AS
Driven by curiosity, discipline, and a passion for finance and innovation, Agnese Razgaite-Strode brings a strong international and analytical perspective to the Rail Baltica project. Since joining RB Rail AS in 2022, she has progressed from preparing CEF funding proposals to working on complex infrastructure financing and economic assessments. With experience in both fast-growing private businesses and the public sector, she combines adaptability with respect for structure and rules. For Agnese, Rail Baltica is a place where long-term thinking, persistence, and continuous learning come together, proving that disciplined work and balance ultimately lead to lasting success.
When did you join the Rail Baltica project and what inspired you to become a part of the team?
I joined in March 2022 because I was looking for a workplace that combined three elements I value: an international environment, financial management, and innovation. RB Rail, as the central coordinator for the Rail Baltica Global Project, was the perfect match. Additionally, it is the largest infrastructure project in the Baltics this century – a combination of attributes that was hard to resist.
How has your role evolved since you first joined the Rail Baltica project, and what have you learned along the way?
I began my career as a Bid Project Manager, focusing on preparing CEF project proposals. Over time, my responsibilities shifted toward developing the CEF final contribution payment calculation split between beneficiaries, integrating the Grant Agreement scope into the GIS solution, and contributing to the Rail Baltica Infrastructure Financing Strategy and Rolling Stock financing options. Currently, my focus is on developing the Finance and Economic Assessment (FEA) for infrastructure construction in northern Latvia, which may be financed through a Public–Private Partnership (PPP).
What do you believe is the most challenging aspect of this mega project?
States domestic politics and politicians.
What specific contribution or skill do you believe you bring to the Rail Baltica project team that sets you apart from others?
I have experience in both a rapidly growing private business (a tech startup) and a state institution. The first gave me the ability to perform in a dynamic, fast-changing, and sometimes chaotic environment, while the second taught me the importance of strictly following rules, laws, and established procedures.
What would you say is the achievement you are most proud of?
Being a loving and present mother and wife is the only achievement that truly matters and will be remembered. Professional accomplishments are important mainly for my CV and for building confidence during job searches.
Who inspired you during your career and why?
During high school and university, my favourite TV show was Alias. The main character is a female spy who continues to take on seemingly impossible challenges, even when she is exhausted and desperate. She finds inner strength to keep moving forward and to do good. In the end, after all the hardships and battles, she achieves a peaceful and beautiful life with her family. It reminds me that hard work truly bears sweet fruits.
What is it about the rail industry that you love?
It is the people who make the rail industry special – their passion and dedication are unmatched.
How do you balance home and work life and what advice would you give to other women?
Set a firm boundary between family time and work life. Focus on doing your best in each during the dedicated hours. Having a supportive husband and family is essential – that is the key.
Do you think women handle leadership roles differently to men?
Absolutely. In my experience, for many men, leadership often comes with a sense of pride and a desire to prove themselves and demonstrate their abilities. For women, leadership tends to feel more natural – they are already managers of their households and families. They have an innate drive to create order, establish schedules, and maintain clarity in events, processes, and responsibilities.
Women plan meals and grocery shopping in advance, organize logistics for getting children from school or kindergarten to activities, keep track of clothing needs and anticipate purchases as children grow and change. They plan celebrations, birthdays, Christmas, and gifts, while also finding time for themselves and their families – all within a set budget.
The time horizon for women’s planning is often long-term: today’s decisions can impact outcomes months or even a year ahead. These tasks are in addition to their full-time jobs. Women naturally possess leadership skills, and workplaces can greatly benefit by encouraging and creating conditions where women can apply these skills in their daily work.
In your opinion what is the recipe for success, for team, career or otherwise?
Discipline, persistence and taking advantage of opportunities.