The Young Rail Professionals invite you to an evening exploring the transformation of the UK rail industry through digital signalling, with insight from some of the leading figures driving change. The East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP) is at the forefront of modernising the network, and this panel discussion will give attendees a unique opportunity to hear from the people delivering it.

Meet the Panellists
Chris Hobden - ECDP Programme Delivery Director
"I am Chris Hobden, I am the Programme Delivery Director for the East Coast Digital Programme. I am a Chartered Civil Engineer. I spent the first twenty years of my career in the water industry and I have been in the rail industry since 2002. I have been lucky enough to always work on major projects and I have worked for Consultant, Supplier and Client organisations, both nationally and internationally. I relish complex problems, leading and empowering teams to deliver success. ECDP definitely fits that profile!"

Anjay Raj - ECDP Head of Engineering
"Anjay Raj is Head of Engineering for the East Coast Digital Programme. Anjay is accountable for the overall Engineering Delivery, System Integration and System Assurance for ECDP. Anjay has nearly 20 years experience in Railway Systems and Digital Signalling projects in Engineering Leadership, Project Engineering, Design Management, Testing & Commissioning and Assurance roles in both client and supplier roles in the UK and abroad. Prior to his current role on ECDP Anjay held roles as Technical Director for the Interoperable CBTC Programme in New York City and Head of Engineering for the Four Lines Modernisation (4LM) Programme at TfL. Anjay is passionate about using engineering and technology to drive innovation, digital transformation, better value and more assured outcomes within the railway industry."

Sarah Jane Crawford - Senior Programme Manager, East Coast Route NR
"I am experienced at delivering high value and complex projects. My previous positions have allowed me to develop experience in all aspects of the delivery lifecycle. I have experience across the industry, from IT, supply chain operations, front line operations and major programmes. Through a combination of practical experience and knowledge gained from professional qualifications I can quickly gain a detailed understanding of new projects and how to deliver a 'best for industry outcome'."

Oly Turner - Head of ETCS, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR)
"This year marks my 20th year on the railway, my background is both safety and operations holding both a NEBOSH and a train driving licence. I have just finished 10 years at Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), where I was involved and ran major programmes including train introduction and digital signalling applications. I ran the GTR ERTMS team where we successfully managed the ATO operation on Thameslink, increased its use and performance, the application of ETCS on the Northern City line from re-signalling to signals away in around 24 months. We’ve also upgraded, fitted and placed into service ETCS on legacy fleets. I have been co-opted on the ECDP’s senior leadership team as an SME and while I only have a short time left in the world of digital signalling I am tasked to help as many individuals as possible to the transition to this new method of operation."

Event Details

📅 Thursday 25th Sep: Arrive and network from 18:00, panel and Q&A 18:30-20:10, then informal networking at a nearby pub.
📍 Room 03-02a & 03-02b, Nova North, AtkinsRéalis (near Victoria Station)

Refreshments will be provided. Please bring photo ID and check in at reception in the lobby. Inform staff you are attending the YRP event, and they will direct you to Floor 3. If you encounter any issues accessing the building, please call +44 7719 612874.

This panel is a unique opportunity to hear directly from leaders shaping the future of the UK rail network, from delivery and engineering management to programme strategy and digital transformation. Whether you are a young professional starting your railway career or an experienced practitioner seeking insight into the latest developments in digital signalling, this event offers both learning and networking opportunities.

Spaces are limited so secure your ticket now! https://buytickets.at/youngrailprofessionals1/1819358

Travel Notice: A planned TfL strike from 5th-11th September may affect travel across London. Please check your journeys in advance for route changes or delays.