Vincent Raven began his career as an apprentice to Edward Fletcher at Gateshead, with NER. After this he spent two years working in the drawing offices and five years firing locomotives. After taking up positions as divisional locomotvie superintendant and assistant Chief Mechanical Engineer he was promoted to the post of Chief Mechanical Engeer in 1910, where he suceeded William Wodsell. He remained in the position until he retired in 1923.