Rachel Ford

Interim Strategy Director

Rachel Ford is the Interim Strategy Director at TfN and has held the role since January 2025. She is responsible for leading the strategy function, which includes the development and delivery of TfN’s Strategic Transport Plan. This includes delivering against our strategic objectives for economic growth, decarbonisation and social inclusion, as well as oversight of the major roads function and new technologies.

Professional Background

• Has led the strategy and research team at TfN since September 2023, covering key programmes including the Strategic Transport Plan and research programme, including the Northern Powerhouse Independent Economic Review (NPIER) and Transport Related Social Exclusion (TRSE).
• Was previously Programme Manager at Transport for the South East, as well as having previously worked for local and regional government in senior economic development roles.
• Holds an MA in Geographical Research methods from Durham University.

Leadership Responsibilities
Leads TfN’s Strategy function, including the development and delivery of the Strategic Transport Plan, decarbonisation strategy, major roads and the research programme.