OUR HOST

Dave Guest

Dave Guest is a familiar face to the industry, having contributed to Euro Bus Expo in various guises over the years, and has been a regular host at the annual ALBUM conference. In his role as Chief Reporter on BBC Northwest Tonight, Dave delivered the news from many weird and wonderful places. He has undertaken various roles with the BBC and is looking forward to hosting the routeone Innovation Challenge finals, watching & listening to all pitches from the entrants.

THE JUDGES

Aaron Hill

Director of CPT Cymru

Aaron Hill is the Director of CPT Cymru. Aaron brings a wealth of experience from membership organisations and the third sector to CPT, having an extensive background in policy, influencing and external affairs. His previous roles have covered a wide variety of public services, including housing, regeneration, health and education.

In previous roles, Aaron has been Director of Policy with the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations and Head of Policy with Wales-based organisations including Community Housing Cymru and the National Deaf Children’s Society. He is also a board member with a local housing association – RHA Wales – and was previously Chair of Public Affairs Cymru.

Chloe Leach O'Connell

Consultant

Chloe Leach-O’Connell is an engagement professional specialising in internal and external communication programmes, working with the passenger transport industry across the UK. She has worked in the industry for over 15 years and led and delivered award-winning employee engagement initiatives, PR and marketing strategies, and transformational programmes. Chloe is passionate about accelerating inclusion and diversity in the bus industry, she is a founder member, and Co-Chair of the D&I Bus Group, part of Women in Transport.

Phil Hitchen

Managing Director, Belle Vue (Manchester) 

Phil Hitchen, Managing Director at Belle Vue Bus & Coach Hire, is a High Yellow Inspirer who is passionate about people and business. Phil believes innovation starts with the passenger and works backwards. Innovative ideas are essential to progress as a hub to a wheel, as they form the centre around which all things revolve.