Under the leadership of Dr Greg Ward, Premier Technical Services Group (PTSG) is fast becoming a trusted partner to Britain’s rail infrastructure…combining technical expertise, data-driven compliance and an uncompromising commitment to safety. From heritage lines to the Elizabeth Line, PTSG is playing an important part in keeping the UK rail network on track.
How Dr Greg Ward is Driving Safety, Innovation and Growth Across the UK Rail Network
When Dr Greg Ward took the helm at Premier Technical Services Group (PTSG) earlier this year, he brought with him three decades of experience in transforming complex operational environments – and a clear vision for the future of one of the UK’s fastest-growing niche specialist service providers.
“Our role in the rail industry is about enabling confidence,” Ward says. “Confidence that assets are safe, compliant and operationally resilient, whatever the scale or complexity of the network.”
A trusted partner across the network
Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Castleford, Yorkshire, PTSG has grown to become a vital partner to both the construction and facilities management sectors. Now, with more than 3,000 specialists delivering over 170 service lines, the company is applying its expertise to every part of Britain’s rail system…from mainline and local railway stations to depots, underground facilities and heritage railways.
Its portfolio of rail projects is extensive. At Euston Station, PTSG has delivered complex façade access and compliance works across multiple phases of development, while at Bond Street on the Elizabeth Line, its engineers ensured the new station met stringent safety standards ahead of opening. The Group’s Fire Solutions team installed new sprinkler systems on the Docklands Light Railway (DLR), and its Water Treatment division continues to support Network Rail with legionella testing and control programmes across its estate.
Beyond the modern network, PTSG has also supported the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, ensuring that one of Britain’s best-loved heritage lines remains safe for future generations.
“Whether it’s a 150-year-old facility or a brand-new interchange, our approach is the same,” Ward explains. “It’s about protecting assets, people and performance.”
Safety and compliance without compromise
In an industry where safety is paramount, PTSG’s technical depth and operational rigour make it stand out. Its divisions cover fall protection and façade access systems, lightning and electrical testing, rope access and high-level maintenance, fire safety systems and water hygiene services.
Each service is delivered with precision, often in environments where downtime is not an option. From specialist earthing systems along the West Coast Main Line to lightning protection across Transport for London’s network of stations and depots, PTSG’s engineers provide the invisible infrastructure that keeps Britain’s railways compliant, connected and resilient. The company’s work keeps passengers and freight on the move.
“Safety isn’t a department for us, it’s a mindset,” Ward says. “Everything we do begins with safety. That’s why customers trust us with their most critical assets.”
The culture behind the capability
Since joining as CEO in June 2025, Ward has set out to strengthen not only PTSG’s commercial growth but also its culture. His leadership model places people at the centre of performance, inverting the traditional hierarchy so that those on the front line are supported by everyone above them.
“PTSG’s engineers are the face of our business,” he says. “They represent our reputation every day, in every rail depot and on every site. My responsibility is to make sure they have the right training, tools and support to deliver safely and brilliantly.”
Ward’s approach has already resulted in stronger engagement and new opportunities for progression across the Group. Under his leadership, PTSG is preparing to launch a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence, a national hub dedicated to technical training, customer service, digital innovation and safety leadership.
Innovation driving resilience
The company’s investment in digital capability is another defining feature of its strategy. Across the rail sector, PTSG is harnessing data analytics, smart reporting and remote inspection technologies to help asset owners anticipate risk, plan maintenance, and reduce disruption.
“Rail operators want assurance, insight and speed,” Ward explains. “By combining technology with the experience of our engineers, we can deliver all three.”
PTSG’s multi-disciplinary model also allows it to provide a joined-up approach – integrating electrical compliance, fire safety, water hygiene and access systems into a single managed solution. This capability has proved critical for clients such as Transport for London, where the company’s teams manage lightning protection, inspection and maintenance programmes across dozens of operational sites.
Growth built on strong foundations
With turnover rising from £275 million in 2023 to £320 million in 2024 – and plans to more than double within the next two years – PTSG’s financial performance reflects both market demand and disciplined execution. The company’s continued expansion, supported by Macquarie and Warburg Pincus, combines organic growth with strategic acquisitions that extend its geographic and technical reach.
At the same time, PTSG’s ESG and sustainability credentials are becoming an increasingly important differentiator. The Group is enhancing its EcoVadis rating and driving carbon reduction across operations – priorities that align closely with the sustainability goals of the UK’s rail infrastructure programme.
“Sustainability, like safety, is not optional,” says Ward. “It’s integral to how we deliver long-term value for customers, communities and investors.”
A clear direction of travel
Ward’s vision is ambitious yet grounded. He sees PTSG as a company uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between traditional engineering and next-generation compliance – helping customers achieve reliability, sustainability and safety at every stage of the rail journey.
“Our ambition is to become Europe’s leading specialist service provider in safety and compliance,” he says. “The rail industry will continue to be an important part of that growth – because it’s where our capabilities, our technology and our culture align perfectly.”
From the London Underground to the Luton DART, from depot safety systems at Wembley to conservation work at the National Railway Museum, PTSG’s footprint across Britain’s rail network continues to grow. Under Ward’s leadership, the company’s future looks firmly on track.
“We’re not just supporting the network,” he concludes. “We’re helping to secure its future.”
