Industry expert

Rupert Walker
strategy and planning director , Network Rail
As Strategy and Planning Director Rupert leads the System Operator team planning the future of the rail network in the south of England including London.
The team works closely with the Network Rail routes and train and freight operator customers to get the most out of existing rail capacity and plan for where new capacity is needed, balancing the needs of the routes with a network wide perspective.
The team also seek out opportunities for third party investment in the railway, working with government, local authorities, sub-national transport bodies and other funders to realise project benefits for passengers and freight users.
Rupert joined the railways in December 2000 and has led the development stages of several landmark projects including HS2, Crossrail, Reading station, Thameslink, and ERTMS.