The EDI Charter for Rail has announced changes to its senior leadership group as it continues to expand its reach across the rail industry.
Founded in 2020 by the Railway Industry Association (RIA) and Women in Rail, the Charter now has more than 230 signatories committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) across the sector.
The Charter asks organisations to commit to a number of key actions, including appointing a senior EDI Champion, agreeing and monitoring an action plan, providing training to address unconscious bias, creating inclusive workplace cultures and ensuring recruitment and progression processes are accessible to people from all backgrounds.
As part of the latest leadership changes, Mandeep Singh, Global Product Marketing Manager – Rail at TÜV Rheinland Group, and Ben Evans, New Business Director for UK & Ireland at AtkinsRéalis, are stepping down as Chair and Vice-Chair of the Working Group.
They will be succeeded by Tracey Barber, Senior EDI Business Partner at LNER, and Maggie Talty-Sanghera, Capability Development Manager at Telent Technology, who will serve as Co-Chairs, while Stefani Dupree, Head of Communications & Social Value at Central Rail Systems Alliance, takes on the role of Vice-Chair.
Outgoing Chair Mandeep Singh said:
“Over the past three years it has been a privilege to serve as Chair of the EDI Charter Working Group. I am proud of the progress the group has made in strengthening the industry’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. With the appointment of now dual Co-Chairs and a Vice Chair, the refreshed structure brings together a highly talented and motivated group of individuals who will continue to drive this important work forward. I wish them every success in the next chapter of the EDI Charter.”
Incoming Co-Chair Tracey Barber said:
“I’m delighted to take on the role of Co Chair for the Rail EDI Charter. My passion for this work is both professional and personal. Across more than a decade in rail, spanning freight, infrastructure, and passenger services, I’ve championed equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and advocated for STEM, mental health, allyship, and for colleagues whose talents are too often overlooked. As a proud Mancunian and mum to two daughters, I’ve seen the unnecessary hurdles young women still face, and it fuels my determination to break the glass ceilings that persist in our industry. This role is a chance to bring people together, challenge barriers, and turn commitment into lasting change, and I encourage colleagues across the sector to join us in shaping a more inclusive future for rail.”
Co-Chair Maggie Talty-Sanghera added:
“I’m honoured to accept the position of Co-Chair of the Rail Industry EDI Charter. For me, this role represents an opportunity to help ensure our industry truly reflects the diversity of the communities it serves, while creating environments where everyone feels valued, supported and able to thrive. Having spent much of my career developing people and supporting early careers, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful inclusive leadership can be in unlocking potential and strengthening organisations. I’m particularly passionate about widening access to rail, supporting those from under-represented backgrounds and ensuring that talent is recognised wherever it exists. I look forward to working collaboratively with colleagues across the industry to continue building a railway that is more inclusive, innovative and welcoming for the next generation.”
New Vice-Chair Stefani Dupree said:
“It’s a privilege to take on the Vice Chair role and support the continued work of the EDI Charter. Launched by RIA and Women in Rail to champion equality, diversity and inclusion across the UK rail industry. By working collaboratively across the sector, we can help create fairer opportunities, strengthen representation at all levels and foster truly inclusive workplaces.”
Commenting on the appointments, RIA Policy Director Robert Cook said:
“We’d like to thank outgoing Chair and Vice Chair Mandeep and Ben for their commitment to the Charter and welcome Tracey, Maggie and Stefani to the Group as it enters its sixth year in supporting the enhancement of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the rail industry.”
Marie Daly, Chair of Women in Rail, added:
“I’m delighted to welcome Tracey Barber and Maggie Talty Sanghera as Co Chairs of the EDI Charter Working Group. The EDI Charter is a vital partnership between Women in Rail and the Railway Industry Association, and Tracey and Maggie’s leadership will be instrumental in strengthening its impact as we continue to drive positive, industry wide change.”
Found out more about the Charter here
