Our Ambassadors
The Women in Bus and Coach Ambassador Programme recognises individuals who are making a lasting impact on gender equity and inclusion across the Bus, Coach and Community Transport sector.
Our Ambassadors come from a wide range of roles and backgrounds, but they all share a passion for creating positive change. Whether they’re mentoring others, raising awareness, or championing opportunities for women, each Ambassador plays a vital role in building a more inclusive, supportive and diverse industry.
This page showcases the inspiring individuals helping to lead the way – representing the values of Women in Bus and Coach.
Meet our Ambassadors
Anne Marie Purcell
Chief Transformation Officer
Transport for Manchester
Anne Marie Purcell is a passionate advocate for inclusion and a key figure in public transport leadership. As Chief Transformation Officer for Greater Manchester, she plays a central role in shaping accessible, passenger-focused services.
At the forefront of Transport for Greater Manchester’s strategic revolution, Anne Marie’s tenure as Chief Transformation Officer has been marked by the successful implementation of the Bee Network Vision. Her team have redefined transportation in the region, evidenced by the transition to a publicly controlled bus service — a historic shift enhancing connectivity for millions.
Anne Marie formally accepted her Women in Bus and Coach Ambassadorship– at the Women in Bus and Coach parliamentary reception on 16 December 2024. Her appointment recognises her long-standing commitment to championing the role of women across the sector.
With over two decades of experience in transport operations and strategy, Anne Marie is known not only for her leadership but also for mentoring and supporting others in their careers. Her involvement as an Ambassador reflects her belief in creating workplaces where everyone can thrive – regardless of gender – and in helping more women see a future for themselves in the bus, coach and community transport industry.
You can find Anne Marie on LinkedIn here.
Mayor Tracy Brabin
Mayor of West Yorkshire
Tracy Brabin is a trailblazer in UK politics and public service. Elected as the first female Metro Mayor in England, she leads West Yorkshire with a strong focus on equality, opportunity, and inclusive economic growth.
A passionate supporter of accessible and sustainable transport, Mayor Brabin has championed investment in the region’s bus services and launched initiatives to improve safety and affordability — particularly for women and young people. In 2022, she introduced the “Safety of Women and Girls Strategy”, the Charter brings together transport operators, councils and the police to deliver real improvements in safety, training and accountability across the network.
Tracy was appointed Women in Bus and Coach Ambassador at the Women in Bus and Coach Northern Region launch on 24th March 2025 at Stourton Park and Ride in Leeds. Her role as an Ambassador reflects her deep commitment to breaking down barriers for women — not just in the bus, coach and community transport sector, but in leadership more widely.
With a background spanning the arts, broadcasting, Parliament and now regional government, Tracy brings a unique perspective to the Ambassador Programme — and a powerful voice for change in the bus, coach and community transport sector.
With over two decades of experience in transport operations and strategy, Anne Marie is known not only for her leadership but also for mentoring and supporting others in their careers. Her involvement as an Ambassador reflects her belief in creating workplaces where everyone can thrive – regardless of gender – and in helping more women see a future for themselves in the bus, coach and community transport industry.
You can find Tracy on LinkedIn here.
Claire Mann
Chief Operating Officer, Transport for London
Claire Mann is one of the most senior women in UK transport and a passionate advocate for inclusion, leadership, and cultural change across the sector. As Chief Operating Officer of Transport for London, she is responsible for overseeing the delivery of one of the most complex and high-profile transport networks in the world — ensuring it runs safely, reliably, and with passengers at its heart.
Claire was appointed as a Women in Bus and Coach Ambassador on 29th April 2025, at a special event held at the London Transport Museum to unveil the Jill Viner blue plaque – commemorating London’s first female bus driver.
Throughout her career, Claire has worked across the rail, bus and urban transport sectors, and has consistently championed the advancement of women at all levels of the industry. From driving operational excellence to mentoring emerging leaders, she is widely respected as both a role model and a transformative leader.
As a Women in Bus and Coach Ambassador, Claire continues to lead by example — promoting equity, challenging outdated perceptions, and helping to create a sector where more women can thrive.
You can find Claire on LinkedIn here.
Elizabeth McKay
Director and CEO, London Transport Museum
Elizabeth McKay is a cultural leader and advocate for representation and inclusion within the transport heritage sector and beyond. As Director and CEO of the London Transport Museum, she leads one of the UK’s most engaging public institutions, using the power of storytelling and history to shape a more inclusive future.
Elizabeth was appointed as a Women in Bus and Coach Ambassador on 29th April 2025 during the unveiling of the Jill Viner blue plaque at the London Transport Museum — a significant moment honouring London’s first female bus driver and celebrating women’s contributions to the bus, coach and community transport industry.
Under Elizabeth’s leadership, the Museum has deepened its commitment to diversity and education, championing initiatives that inspire the next generation, challenge stereotypes, and highlight the often-overlooked stories of women in transport.
As a Women in Bus and Coach Ambassador, Elizabeth brings a cultural and educational lens to the movement — helping to connect the past with the present and empowering more women to see themselves as part of the future of the bus, coach and community transport sector.
You can find Elizabeth on LinkedIn here.
