Driving Change in Public Transport: Practical Lessons from Recent Programmes

With three decades of experience delivering large-scale transformation across complex environments, I’ve had the opportunity to lead a wide variety of programmes. In recent years, I’ve applied this experience within the public transport sector, where the stakes are high and the potential for positive impact is significant.

Supporting two major UK Combined Authorities on bus franchising transformation programmes has offered a valuable perspective on the unique challenges and opportunities that come with modernising transport systems. These projects are ambitious by nature—requiring coordination across technical, operational, and stakeholder landscapes—all while maintaining a relentless focus on delivering better outcomes for passengers and the communities they serve.

Strategy Is Only the Beginning

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that a strong strategy alone isn’t enough. While vision and direction are essential, successful transformation depends on detailed execution, structured planning, and flexible delivery.

In the bus franchising programmes I’ve supported, this meant aligning programme plans not only to political and policy goals, but also to operational realities—working closely with delivery partners, legal teams, procurement, data specialists, and internal stakeholders to ensure that every moving part worked in sync.

Building Momentum Through Governance and Clarity

A recurring challenge in transformation programmes is ambiguity—about roles, timelines, scope, or expectations. One of the key ways to overcome this is through effective governance: clear structures for decision-making, risk management, and reporting. In both recent transport engagements, I helped establish governance frameworks that provided visibility, accountability, and pace.

This clarity is especially important in public-facing projects, where external scrutiny and public interest add an extra layer of pressure. Getting ahead of potential blockers by establishing transparent reporting lines and escalation routes can make all the difference between programmes that stall and those that succeed.

Collaboration Over Control

While structure is important, transformation doesn’t thrive in overly rigid environments. What has worked best in my recent experience is a collaborative, open style—bringing diverse teams together, making space for challenge, and focusing on shared outcomes.

With the bus franchising programmes, I found that creating trusted partnerships with stakeholders—both internal and external—helped unlock issues more quickly and fostered a genuine sense of shared ownership. This collaborative mindset extended to delivery partners and contractors, where alignment around common goals helped reduce friction and accelerate progress.

Expect the Unexpected

Even the most carefully planned programme will encounter change. Whether it’s shifts in political priorities, new regulatory requirements, or unforeseen technical challenges, the ability to adapt is critical.

In one recent project, shifting timelines and evolving delivery expectations meant we had to revisit and re-sequence significant programme components. By maintaining strong communications, engaging senior stakeholders early, and clearly articulating the options and trade-offs, we were able to course-correct and retain momentum without compromising on quality or compliance.

Lessons for Future Transport Programmes

From my experience, there are a few practical takeaways that may help others involved in transport transformation:

• Plan with flexibility in mind. Have a roadmap—but expect it to evolve. Build in contingency and decision points that allow for recalibration.

• Governance is your foundation. Without clarity on who decides what and when, momentum can stall. Define it early.

• Work with—not around—your stakeholders. Early engagement and honest dialogue are the best tools for building trust and overcoming resistance.

• Keep the purpose front and centre. Transformation isn’t about systems—it’s about improving outcomes for people. Let that guide your decisions.

Final Thoughts

Transport has a profound impact on daily life—and getting transformation right in this sector matters deeply. It’s been a privilege to apply my experience to programmes that aim to improve access, reliability, and integration in public transport.

As the sector continues to evolve—through franchising, decarbonisation, digital innovation, and beyond—there’s a continued need for thoughtful, experienced delivery leadership that balances strategy with hands-on pragmatism.

Written by Steve Wiseman
Steve is a senior programme manager with 30 years of experience leading transformation across complex environments. In recent years, he has supported major bus transformation initiatives with UK Combined Authorities and is currently available for new opportunities and advisory work.