National Express to discuss tech investment at Chamber briefing

A key figure from National Express will discuss the transport operator 's investment in new technology at the launch of a Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce report.

Ali Bell (pictured), head of external communications for National Express UK Bus, is speaking at the GBCC 's Quarterly Business Report webinar on 19 January.

The webinar, which is sponsored by Birmingham City University, will focus on innovation in Greater Birmingham.

Ali will give an update on the innovative investment that National Express has been making in relation to hydrogen technology

Ali has been at National Express for six years, having also worked in similar roles with the Probation Service, Staffordshire Police and Network Rail.

She also worked in London for many years as a BBC News Channel journalist prior to relocating to the Midlands.

Beth Clewes, insight and intelligence services manager for the GBCC, said “We 're thrilled to have Ali speaking at our QBR event about the exciting investment National Express has made in new technology and the role that will play in driving innovative practices across the transport industry.

“Giving businesses across the Greater Birmingham community the information and tools to drive innovation is more important than ever given the challenges businesses have faced throughout the pandemic, with further disruption expected as a result of the Omicron variant.

“Therefore it 'll be great to hear from Ali on how a regional powerhouse such as National Express has adapted to the current climate.

Following an update on the results from our latest Quarterly Business Report, attendees will hear from Dr Justin Varney, head of public health at Birmingham City Council on what Omicron means for local businesses and from Tracy Westall, chair of Curium Solutions, non-executive director at the Department of Transport, Innovation Birmingham, Tech UK and a member of the West Midlands Digital Advisory Board.

Tracy will showcase the importance of business level innovation and how that can play a part in fostering a broader economic recovery as we emerge from the pandemic.

The online webinar is free to attend - register here.