Emily Lacey

Said the following about David Ross:

“As Communications Director, David oversees all aspects of communications in one of the busiest teams in the country. Over the course of the last year, there have been more challenges for the railway then every before.

Aside from the impact of the pandemic on services, and the enormous challenge to keep engaging with staff, customers, and stakeholders, David oversaw the communication aspect of the transition to public ownership and all the reputational risks and opportunities that it posed.

This historic change for the railway in Scotland, took place against the backdrop of industrial relations challenges. And followed the navigation through COP26, following close to year of industrial action, impacting services across the country. Despite the many challenges, positive relationships with media outlets continue to grow, stakeholder engagement is unparalleled, social media channels are thriving, and internal communications across the business is ever-improving.

However, David’s tireless work does not end with the smooth and efficient running of the communications team. In 2021, he was faced with a life-changing diagnosis of testicular cancer, leading to months away from work while he underwent treatment to beat the disease and save his life. David approached the battle with his usual determination and was soon back at work to help the team through the daily challenges.

Now fully recovered, David has also recently completed a month-long charity challenge. Throughout August, he cycled at least 10km every day to raise money for the Beatson Cancer Charity, because, in his own words “I want it to keep saving lives like saved mine”. David raised more than £10,000 through his cycling efforts, while continuing to lead the team and supporting his wife and two young children.

David is a very popular member of the senior management team at ScotRail, and is continuing to lead the highly-regarded team through a critical time in the history of the railway in this country.“