In a major step toward unifying the UK’s rail network, Network Rail’s Group Director of Communications, Molly Neal, has been appointed Integrated Communications Director across DFTO and Network Rail.
For the first time, a single communications function will span both organisations, aligning strategic messaging across the railway system as it transitions toward Great British Railways (GBR).
Molly will sit on the Executive Leadership Teams of both Network Rail and DFTO, while serving as Head of Profession for corporate affairs and communications across the sector. In this expanded capacity, she will provide unified leadership across DFTO, publicly owned Train Operating Companies, and Network Rail throughout the transition to and stand-up of GBR.
Molly is a highly experienced communications and corporate affairs leader with more than 20 years’ experience across infrastructure, energy, property, media, and financial services. Currently Group Director of Communications at Network Rail, she has been instrumental in shaping communications for the transition to Great British Railways. Prior to joining the railway, she held senior leadership roles at National Grid and Landsec and spent a decade in journalism, predominantly at The Wall Street Journal. She is known for building high-performing teams and leading communications through periods of significant transformation.
This integrated role has been established to align industry communications in the same way the sector is bringing track and train operations together in the lead up to GBR. Neal’s unified remit covers internal communications, external and media relations, digital and social media, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, behaviour change campaigns, and community relations. She will be tasked with delivering measurable improvements in public trust, stakeholder confidence, and workforce engagement during this pivotal period of reform.
She said: “This is a pivotal moment for the rail industry, and I’m focused on ensuring our customers, stakeholders and dedicated workforce are at the heart of the journey towards Great British Railways. Creating a single communications function across the railway will enable us to speak with one voice, build deeper public trust and clearly demonstrate the tangible benefits an integrated railway can deliver for customers, communities and the wider economy.”
Image credit: Network Rail
