This November, senior leaders from the transport, business and tourism sectors will come together in Dundee to discuss how rail can contribute to a more sustainable, connected and prosperous future.
Hosted jointly by LNER and Transform Scotland, the reception will bring together stakeholders to hear from leading speakers, share ideas and build connections around the opportunities rail presents for Scotland’s communities and economy.
We’re pleased that Donna Webb, Business Development Coordinator at Dewar’s Aberfeldy is joining us to share their experience of the value of rail for sustainable tourism and to host a mini whisky tasting.
George Lowder, Chair of Transform Scotland, Caroline Warburton, Destination Development Director at VisitScotland, and Stuart Thomas, Communications Director with LNER, will join the speaking lineup.
Meet the speakers
George Lowder
George Lowder brings extensive experience in transport, public service and organisational leadership. As former Chief Executive of Transport for Edinburgh, he led the continued development of Edinburgh’s integrated public transport network. He holds senior roles including Chair of Transform Scotland, Chair of the Light Rail Safety & Standards Board and Vice President of the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce. Through his Chamber role, George understands the importance of economic growth to Scotland and the vital contribution Chambers can make to supporting businesses and driving regional growth.
Caroline Warburton
Caroline Warburton is Destination Development Director at VisitScotland and Chair of Dundee’s Tourism Leadership Group. She has extensive experience in tourism leadership and destination development, having previously worked with the Scottish Tourism Alliance and founded Wild Scotland. Caroline brings a strong focus on sustainable and responsible tourism, and its role in strengthening Dundee’s reputation as a distinctive visitor destination while delivering benefits for the city’s communities, environment and economy.
Stuart Thomas
Stuart Thomas has a wealth of experience in communications, media and public affairs. In his current role, Stuart leads communications for LNER, a major rail operator whose services connect Dundee, Tayside and communities across Scotland with major destinations and economic centres throughout the UK. Stuart has also held senior positions at a number of high-profile media organisations, including the BBC, where he served as Head of the Midlands, as well as ITN and LBC.
About the event
The Think Rail First reception will take place on Wednesday 4 November at Dundee Contemporary Arts. It will bring together elected representatives, business leaders, tourism organisations, transport partners and civic leaders from Dundee and Tayside to explore the role of rail in supporting sustainable tourism, strengthening local economies and improving community connectivity.
The reception is hosted jointly by LNER and Transform Scotland, building on the success of the Think Rail First parliamentary reception in 2025. This event continues the conversation in Dundee, highlighting the city’s vital role in shaping the future of Scotland’s rail network.
Interested in hearing more about this event or getting involved?
Please contact Katherine at katherine.scott@transform.scot
