Sarah Higgins

Sarah Higgins is Operations Director at TFW Rail responsible for leading a large team through the transformation of the Wales and Borders Railways, with new (and old!) crew, trains, services and technologies.

Between January 2021 and September 2023 Sarah led the Driver function at West Midlands Trains through significant disruption and the challenges of the pandemic, in the process being recognised at national level for the progress made, including Highly Commended at the National Rail Awards for her Outstanding Personal Contribution (2023). In eight years working on the railways, Sarah has held progressively responsible roles leading teams of traincrew and was Head of Stations for LNR during the first year of CV19.

Previously, Sarah was Deputy Director at the Department for Transport and led the Bowe Review of Network Rail’s CP5 Enhancements Programme, in direct support to Dame Colette Bowe. As a civil servant, Sarah specialized in complex rail franchising projects and franchise management- including the 2014 negotiations for an interim franchise agreement on Thameslink/Great Northern. In 2013, Sarah was editor of The Brown Review of Rail Franchising which has shaped the Government’s franchising programme. In 2012, Sarah supported the creation and implementation of the Wessex Alliance, a transformational partnership working scheme between South West Trains and Network Rail, leading on issues in relation to the European legislative framework.

Prior to this, Sarah undertook a series of roles during three years on the Civil Service Graduate Fast Stream Programme. Highlights included: as a Private Secretary, implementing the Department’s Corporate Change Programme; and leading a review of the Vehicle Registration process at the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency).

In 2014, Sarah completed a one year secondment to MTR, the Hong Kong transit operator, providing strategic advice in respect of cross border and Airport Express (AEL) services.