A prominent Cumbrian businesswoman has been appointed to the Railway Industry Association board.
Emma Porter, chair of Story Plant Limited, will play a key role in supporting the association’s strategic direction.
The association is the UK’s national trade body for suppliers to the railway industry.
Her appointment to the 15-strong board comes as association membership has grown to over 360 companies from across the supply chain.
The association supports the delivery of a bigger and better rail industry, representing the sector as an essential generator of economic growth, jobs, and investment, supporting a low-carbon form of mass transit for communities across the UK.
Emma said: “Joining the Railway Industry Association board is a great opportunity to contribute to an industry that plays a vital role in connecting communities, providing clean sustainable travel and supporting thriving economies.
“I’m looking forward to collaborating with industry leaders and am passionate about and committed to playing my part in contributing to driving positive change within the rail sector.”
She has a strong desire to make a difference and cares deeply about sustainability, inclusivity, and diversity in the industry. Her passion for sustainability and creating an environment for people of all backgrounds to thrive is demonstrated through several roles outside of Story, including being a Women in Rail champion and founder/director of The Rebuild Site which facilitates the construction sector to move from take-make-use-waste to a circular economy of rethink-reclaim-reuse.
David Tonkin, Chairman of the Railway Industry Association, said: “We are delighted to welcome Emma to the board. With a long track record in the UK’s infrastructure sector, Emma will be a huge asset to the team and support RIA and our member organisations’ in delivering a bigger, better, and more sustainable rail industry in the years to come.”
