The Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) has appointed Rachael Everard as its new Director of Sustainable Development.
Rachael previously led sustainability at Rolls-Royce plc and has extensive experience in corporate sustainability across transport and energy, particularly in climate adaptation and decarbonisation, human rights and corporate reporting.
Rachael is a chartered environmentalist and a member of both the Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment (IEMA) and the Institute of Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability (ICRS). Rachael holds a MA Honours degree in Sustainable Development from the University of St Andrews.
Rachael will be leading RSSB’s work supporting the rail industry in tackling key sustainability challenges. Although rail is already the most efficient mode of long-distance transport for people and goods, there is a greater challenge for the rail industry – enhancing its impact on the environment, local communities, and society – and delivering net zero.
Welcoming Rachael’s appointment, RSSB’s chief executive Mark Phillips said: “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 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.”
On her appointment, Rachael 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.”
Image credit: RSSB
