What was your highlight of 2025?
Well, being appointed perm sec at DfT was a pretty big deal! It’s cliched but true – it’s both a huge honour and a huge responsibility. We have a fantastic team here in DfT, making the transport system work better for people and businesses the UK – today, tomorrow and for decades to come. It’s a privilege to work with the DfT team, and all our colleagues across the transport system.
What was the hardest part of being a leader in 2025?
I am still learning how to be the best leader of DfT I can be. So, what we need to change as an organisation, and what we need to cherish and help flourish further. What I need to adapt in how I work, and what I should keep exactly the same. For me the hardest part of being a leader is when the professional and the personal collide – either in the practicalities of personal logistics (I’m on a vow not to miss a parents evening in 2026!), or when the difficult issues we deal with in government also impact colleagues personally.
What are the main challenges facing your department in the coming year?
So many and varied! From the operational challenges of improving the availability of driving tests, to how we refine the national policy framework so all local areas can have the most effective, integrated transport system possible. And while it’s not a competition… I also think we have the most interesting set of major infrastructure programmes in government – from resetting HS2, to a third runway at Heathrow and the Lower Thames Crossing, the biggest road scheme in a generation. So project delivery professionals, please look no further than the great opportunities at DfT!
Which celebrity or historical figure would you choose to turn on the Christmas lights in your town – and why?
Hmm, excellent question. We’ve had a lot of local celebrations for the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. So definitely time to balance that out with someone a bit more modern – but would defer to my children who that should be, they would be horrified at anyone I recommended!
Read all the entries to this year's perm secs round up here