Meet the UKTram Board: Spotlight on Sophie, Managing Director of Midland Metro 

Sophie joined the UKTram Board in December 2022, bringing more than 15 years of transport leadership across bus, light rail and heavy rail. As Managing Director of Midland Metro, she oversees the safe and sustainable operation of West Midlands Metro, guiding the organisation through both periods of growth and significant challenges. 

A versatile and accomplished leader, Sophie is known for her calm, decisive approach in high-stakes environments. Her understanding of the transport industry and talent for navigating detail and developing people has made Sophie an influential voice across the sector.

Sophie’s work at Midland Metro includes steering the organisation through a complex tram fleet repair programme, managing a temporary service suspension, leading the successful return to service ahead of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and a major network extension. To round off the year, we chatted with Sophie for our final Meet the Board spotlight, exploring her reflections and ambitions for the sector. 

1: What have been the biggest challenges and proudest moments since becoming Managing Director for WMM?  

The biggest challenge was leading the business when we had to suspend service for a period because of cracks on our 2G trams.  Naturally, customers, colleagues and other stakeholders were keen to see the service resume swiftly, but safety was our number one priority. Managing expectations was key, but perhaps most important was supporting the team through a difficult time as we worked together to navigate the challenges we faced.    

My proudest moments are probably when I see my team win awards, especially individual awards.  We are still a relatively small operator and perhaps do not have some of the advantages of those with global operations, but each team member gives their best every day. When they are recognised for this, it makes me so proud!   

2: WMM has seen significant growth in recent years, with new extensions and rising passenger numbers. How do you see the operator’s role evolving as part of the wider vision for a fully integrated transport system?  

WMM is very much the backbone of the region's transport and with new extensions soon to come online and the move to Bus Franchising in the region, there is a real opportunity to improve integration between the modes across the network. This will deliver a better a more seamless multimodal service for customers.  

3: You’re also an active participant in Women in Transport through UKTram’s corporate membership. How has this network supported you in your role, and why do you think initiatives like this are important for the sector?  

When I joined Light Rail, there were very few women in the industry and particularly in senior roles.  Women in Transport promotes opportunities for women and offers support and mentoring in their careers.  Having a strong network where I can seek advice, reassurance or just share lived experiences is really helpful. Ensuring women are represented in the industry creates a more inclusive environment, particularly in the design and operation of systems.

4: How has being part of the UKTram Board shaped your insights and priorities for the wider light rail sector / or which insights and priorities have you shared with the board? Being part of UK Tram has broadened how I perceive the industry, particularly having started in heavy rail - Light Rail certainly has its own place.  Whilst it is often viewed as expensive due to the capital investment required, it is important that UKTram communicates the wider benefits that tram networks bring, including economic, environmental and social.    

 5. What is one piece of advice you’ve received that’s stayed with you throughout your career? 

  My former manager and mentor Steve McAleavy used to always say “Have we done everything we can not the least we can get away with?” and it’s a question I always ask of myself and am known to ask it of the team to ensure we deliver the very best every day. 😊  

Sophie’s contribution to the UKTram Board over the past three years has helped strengthen the organisation’s strategic direction at a pivotal time for the light rail sector. Her commitment to collaborative working, clear decision-making and the long-term development of public transport continues to support UKTram’s mission as the collective voice of light rail in the UK. We look forward to sharing more Board profiles as part of this ongoing series.