David Begg was appointed to the Board of FirstGroup as a Non-Executive Director in August 2005, simultaneously taking on the role of Chairman of the Remuneration Committee. In this capacity, Professor Begg DSc BA leverages extensive expertise in transport policy and strategic advice to guide one of the UKs largest public transport operators. Prior to his tenure at FirstGroup, he served as Chairman of the Commission for Integrated Transport until 2005, where he was instrumental in shaping national integrated transport policies. Concurrently, he held the position of Non-Executive Director of the Strategic Rail Authority until 2005, contributing to the strategic oversight and direction of national rail infrastructure and development.
Beyond his executive and advisory board roles, Professor Begg maintains a strong academic presence as a Visiting Professor at Plymouth University, where he shares his extensive knowledge with future generations of transport professionals. His advisory work has also included significant contributions to regional bodies, such as the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive, providing strategic guidance on local transport planning and implementation. A prolific communicator, Professor Begg has authored 20 books, establishing himself as a recognized writer, broadcaster, and commentator on a wide array of transport-related topics for a broad audience. Professor Beggs work consistently focuses on the critical areas of policy development, strategic planning, and understanding the complex dynamics of public transport systems.
His commitment to promoting efficiency and integration within the sector continues to define his professional journey. Currently, he remains an invaluable asset to FirstGroup as a Non-Executive Director and Chairman of the Remuneration Committee, alongside his impactful roles at Transport Times, BAA Limited, the Business Infrastructure Commission, and Portobello Partnership. His deep-seated expertise and unwavering dedication solidify his position as a preeminent voice in global transport strategy.