UK Rail Reform: Network Rail, GBR & Supply Sector Growth

Network Rail CEO Jeremy Westlake to Address Railway Industry Association Conference

The UK railway industry is set for a significant gathering this November, as the Railway Industry Association (RIA) Annual Conference will host a roster of key figures to discuss critical issues facing the sector. The conference, scheduled for 5-6 November at the Leonardo Royal Hotel, London Tower Bridge, will feature Jeremy Westlake, the incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Network Rail, in his first major public address since succeeding Sir Andrew Haines OBE in October. The event aims to bring together over 300 railway professionals to explore strategies for growth, with a particular focus on the supply sector’s role in driving railway reform and innovation. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the future of the UK rail network, including developments around Great British Railways (GBR) and the government’s reform agenda. The conference will provide a vital platform for discussing the challenges and opportunities ahead, shaping the future of the UK’s railways.

Setting the Stage: A Look at the RIA Conference Theme

This year’s RIA conference will revolve around the theme, ‘Resetting the Railways for Growth: Harnessing the Power of the Supply Sector’. This theme directly addresses the critical need for collaboration between Network Rail, the government, and the supply chain to deliver a more efficient and sustainable railway system. This topic is especially timely given the ongoing rail reform initiatives and the establishment of GBR. The conference will provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss how to facilitate innovation, investment, and collaboration within the supply sector to drive growth. The focus is on the practical implementation of reforms. Darren Caplan, RIA Chief Executive, will host the event.

Keynote Speakers and Industry Leaders

The two-day event will feature a series of influential speakers and panel discussions. The Transport Secretary Rt Hon Heidi Alexander MP, will deliver the opening keynote on 5 November, setting the tone for the discussions. Her address will be followed by an appearance from the Shadow Transport Secretary. Key sessions will also include insights from Marie Daley, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Transport for Wales, and Andy Mellors, Managing Director (MD) of Avanti West Coast. A highlight of the first day will be a keynote address from Mark Wild OBE, CEO of HS2, during the evening dinner. The second day promises equally compelling content, including a live podcast with Green Signals and keynotes from Laura Shoaf CBE, Chair of Shadow Great British Railways, and Tim Shoveller, CEO of Freightliner. Further sessions will feature Steve White, MD of South Eastern Railway, Shamit Gaiger OBE, MD of West Coast Partnership, and Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE, DL. These speakers represent a broad spectrum of the railway industry.

Jeremy Westlake’s Perspective: Rail Reform and Beyond

A pivotal moment of the conference will be a fireside chat with Jeremy Westlake, the incoming Network Rail CEO. This will provide the first in-depth public opportunity to hear his perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing Network Rail, the progress of rail reform, and the evolution of GBR. Jeremy Westlake, who previously served as Chief Financial Officer at Network Rail, is anticipated to provide a financial insight into the organization’s future and the potential for the UK supply chain to contribute to the sector’s growth. His insights are expected to be a crucial element of the conference, setting the stage for discussions about future investment and operational strategies.

Conclusion

The RIA Annual Conference in November promises to be a defining event for the UK railway industry. With a comprehensive agenda featuring prominent figures like Jeremy Westlake, the conference provides a critical platform for dialogue and collaboration. The discussions on rail reform, GBR, and the role of the supply sector are timely and significant, given the transformative changes underway. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of future challenges and opportunities, including technological advancements, infrastructure developments, and financial strategies. These conversations are vital for developing strategies to ensure the UK rail network’s long-term sustainability and growth, enhancing efficiency, safety, and passenger experience. The networking opportunities provided will also benefit those involved in the supply chain, making the RIA Annual Conference an unmissable event.