I am currently a Planning Manager within the Strategy and Planning Directorate at National Highways, focussing on the future of the Strategic Road Network.

Throughout my time at National Highways (~5 years) I have had the experience of forward-looking roles across multiple disciplines; from leading tri-partied governance between HS2 Ltd. and Department for Transport to leading and delivering the Digital Roads vision for National Highways and the supply chain. I was inspired to enter the industry of transport and logistics after graduating in Geography from the University of Birmingham.

I joined National Highways in September 2017 as a Graduate Project Manager; rotating placement every 6 months for an 18-month period. During my time on the programme, I completed my Project Management qualifications with the Association of Project Management (APM) whilst balancing project delivery. During these 18 months, I was fortunate to work across a range of projects and programmes; putting into practice the project management principles I had learnt. These included leading a strategic study into Environmentally Sensitive Areas, undertaking an Urban Connectivity review and Secretariat lead for all Governance meetings for HS2 Phase 2. Forming tri-partied governance with HS2 Ltd. and Department for Transport for the coordination and management of a National Infrastructure programme. During this time, I volunteered as a Communications Officer for the Graduate and Apprentice Forum; and since continued to act as an ambassador for the sector representing National Highways at Highways UK and STEM ambassador events.

In 2019 I secured a promotion to the role of Assistant Planning Manager, within the Network Strategy Team, and have since progressed within this team (promoted to Planning Manager in 2021). Throughout my work I have continued to contribute to the development and shaping of the future vision of the Strategic Road Network to inform future strategies and 5-year Road Investment Strategy cycles. I currently manage multiple workstreams and stakeholders to advance the Digital Roads programme for 2025 and beyond (working alongside the SLT, Executive and Board); building and shaping the concept ahead of transition to delivery phase. Most recently I project managed the launch of Digital Roads to both an internal and external audience, leading the stakeholder and communication campaign (September 2021). In 2020 I was awarded “Ownership Champion” for delivering at pace and engaging with stakeholders on the Digital Roads vision (including Executive, Board and Ministers).

I have continued to seek out opportunities to further my career and challenge myself (incl. APMQ Project Management Qualification and Lead Collaborate Succeed). Recent examples include presenting at the Executive and Senior Leaders Conference for National Highways, Roads Academy Senior Leaders Strategy Module, WSP Innovation Lab and taking on the role of a Panellist member for industry conversations at KPMG’s Autonomous Vehicle Panel. In January 2022, I led on the submission of a Digital Roads case study for the PIARC World Road Association; promoting the work of National Highways.

Since joining National Highways, I have continued to support the Early Talent Network. My leadership style promotes inclusivity, adaptability, openness and an agile environment as demonstrated by my role within the Strategy and Planning Improvement Team, leading charity fundraising initiatives, involvement in Graduate recruitment and Placement Coordinating and Line Management/Mentor responsibilities.
Over the last year I have sought out opportunities to contribute to the wider sector of “Highways” by being an active member in the Highways Sector Council; cross supply chain group to deliver and promote positive change across the sector. I am currently part of a taskforce group delivering a campaign to make Highways a career of choice!

I am a LGBT+ Ally and Directorate representative for the Strategy and Planning “Home, Safe and Well Group”; taking personal responsibility to encourage equality, diversity and inclusion across National Highways and wider Highways Sector.