Ruth Busby, People and Transformation Director (Regional) for GWR and Network Rail Wales and Western, and non-executive director at Youth Futures Foundation, has been awarded an OBE ‘for services to diversity in the rail industry’.
Her award recognises not just her work within GWR and Network Rail, but the numerous other organisations she represents to help revolutionise the railway.
Over the past couple of years, she has worked with the Department for Transport, the Samaritans, and Mental Health at Work, to lead a research study on mental health and wellbeing across the rail industry.
As one of our non-executive directors, Ruth works to improve employment outcomes for young people from marginalised backgrounds and is currently chair of our People and Culture Committee and Employer Advisory Board.
Ruth said:
“I’m absolutely thrilled and feel so humbled that people took the time to nominate me. We know that people are at their best when they feel valued, can be themselves and believe that their wellbeing matters.
“The work that I and my brilliant teams have been doing has aimed to create greater equity and workforce diversity, so that we’re more representative of the communities we serve and have an environment where everyone can flourish.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with organisations and charities beyond the day job to help bring about some exciting and positive change. I’m particularly proud of the work we’ve done to improve employment outcomes for young people from marginalised backgrounds. As Chair of Youth Futures Foundation’s People and Culture Committee and Employer Advisory Board, it’s been a pleasure to contribute to their vital work.”
Seyi Obakin, Chair of the Board, Youth Futures Foundation:
“We are delighted that Ruth has been recognised in the New Years Honours list for her dedicated work on improving Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in the workplace. We are proud to have a leader of Ruth’s calibre supporting us in our vital work to help improve employment outcomes for marginalised young people.”
