Nicola Small and Steve Mabey have been elected as non-executive directors of UKTram as the organisation looks to further enhance their position as a driving force behind the growth in light rail. They were appointed at UKTram’s recent annual general meeting and will now be supporting the wider team as it builds on a host of successes to date.
Nicola has worked in local government since 2003 and has a track record of success in delivering sustainable projects and is currently Very Light Rail (VLR) Regional Programme Director at Transport for West Midlands and Coventry VLR Programme Director at Coventry City Council.
Meanwhile, Mike is the current Head of Operational Planning and Delivery at KeolisAmey Metrolink in Manchester. He had developed a broad experience in all aspects of tramway operations, strategic planning and stakeholder management and had led the UKTram Light Rail Operations Group for the past two years.
James Hammett, UKTram Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome both Nicola and Steve to the board as they bring with them fresh enthusiasm as well as a wealth of experience.”
Nicola Small commented: “I’m excited by the prospect of helping UKTram prepare its long-term strategy for 2025 and beyond. The Coventry VLR project is an important development for the sector, and I believe my knowledge and experience of this innovative research and development programme will assist UKTram in supporting the growth of light rail.”
Steve Mabey said: “I’m honoured to be joining the UKTram board and having the opportunity to support the organisation in its mission to drive innovation and sustainable growth across the sector.”
The AGM also saw tributes paid to outgoing non-executive directors, Martin Fleetwood and Ian Middlemiss who had been in the role for nine and six years respectively.
James Hammett added: “We would like to thank them for all their hard work and dedication to the sector over many years, and for helping UKTram to become the definitive voice of light rail in the UK. Now we are ready to build on their achievements with a new look-board that includes the next generation of light rail leaders and is made up of an equal number of male and female professionals from across the sector.”