Unlocking Innovation in a time of structural change for rail

17 Jun 2026
Engineering & Safety Theatre
Rail organisations face growing pressure to modernise while navigating fragmentation, funding pressures, and the transition to GBR. Yet many transformation programmes risk simply digitising existing silos rather than delivering meaningful operational change.
 
This session explores how rail leaders can move beyond pilots to achieve scalable, outcome driven transformation across complex rail ecosystems. Through real-world examples, attendees will hear how innovation is being successfully embedded across organisations despite structural challenges.
 
The discussion will provide practical, actionable insights into the key ingredients for effective transformation, helping organisations turn digital ambition into measurable operational results.
 
Chairperson
Dickon Ross
Dickon Ross, Editor - RAIL
Speakers
Rafael Liechti
Rafael Liechti, Rail Industry Lead for Europe - DXC
Richard Adams
Richard Adams, Group Head of Architecture - DFTO
Neda Naghshbandi
Neda Naghshbandi, Technical Director, Intelligent Transport and Infrastructure - AtkinsRealis