The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has appointed Rachael Everard as its new Director of Sustainable Development.
Ms. Everard will lead the RSSB’s work supporting the rail industry in tackling key sustainability challenges, including enhancing its environmental impact, contributing to local communities and society, and delivering net zero.
Rail is already considered the most efficient mode of long-distance transport, but the industry faces increasing pressure to improve its sustainability performance.
Ms. Everard brings extensive experience in corporate sustainability across the transport and energy sectors, particularly in climate adaptation and decarbonisation, human rights, and corporate reporting. She previously led sustainability at Rolls-Royce plc.
A chartered environmentalist, Ms. Everard is a member of both the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment and the Institute of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability. She holds an MA Honours degree in sustainable development from the University of St Andrews.
Mark Phillips, Chief Executive of RSSB, welcomed the appointment, saying: ‘It’s fantastic to welcome Rachael on board as our new Director of Sustainability.
‘Rachael’s expertise will be put to good use supporting our members [to] further improve the sustainability of the railway. The rail industry has a unique role in Britain’s future. It’s not just about moving people and freight in a sustainable way, but contributing to education, employment, decarbonisation, nature recovery, and improving quality of life.’
Ms. Everard said: ‘I’m delighted to have joined RSSB at such an exciting time for the rail industry, with rail reform we have a perfect opportunity to really embed sustainability across the sector.
‘I look forward to working with RSSB members and communities across the wider sector to further implement the Sustainable Rail Blueprint to help create a more resilient and efficient rail network that preserves the natural environment and promotes social inclusion.’
