Richard Harper

Director
Profile

Richard is a Director at Steer and a respected rail industry leader with over 30 years of experience driving change and collaboration, drawing on capabilities in network planning, operations and performance, and business cases. He has worked extensively across the UK and internationally, advising public and private sector clients on the planning, appraisal, and delivery of major transport projects. Richard specialises in developing evidence-based strategies to support funding bids, collaborative policy development, and investment decisions across a range of transport modes, including rail, road, and urban transport.

Since joining Steer in 2018, he has led high-profile projects for national and local governments, transport authorities, infrastructure and train operators, helping to shape long-term transport strategies and unlock constraints to economic growth. Richard has led the award-winning Manchester Recovery Task Force, delivering high-performance solutions to the problems of the May 2018 timetable and unlocking DfT funding for a programme of incremental investment

Richard works with clients throughout the project lifecycle, from initial feasibility, option and business case development through to readiness assurance and post-project evaluation. His collaborative approach and in-depth technical expertise ensure clients receive practical, innovative solutions that align with their strategic objectives and deliver lasting benefits.

Articles and insights by this expert

19 Jun 2024

Navigating the future of rail: Insights from 30 years of experience

As Steer continues to drive innovation and excellence in the rail industry, it is essential to reflect on the experiences and lessons that have shaped our journey.  

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03 Feb 2021

Steer appointed to work with Network Rail’s North West and Central Region

A year ago, Steer began a significant new commission to help Network Rail’s North West and Central Region, jointly with Department for Transport (DfT) to develop solutions to poor operational performance in Birmingham and Manchester. At the time, none of us could have foreseen what was to come, in the shape of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on UK Rail.

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26 May 2020

Manchester's rail problem

The May 2018 timetable exposed a variety of failings in UK rail, particularly in Manchester. Supported by Steer, the Manchester Recovery Task Force was established in January 2020, to assess short-term solutions to Manchester's rail problems as well as developing a long-term vision.

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We are Steer

Yes, you are in the right place. After 40 years, we have changed our name from Steer Davies Gleave to mark our growing international footprint and our expanding portfolio into markets beyond transportation.

Explore our new website to learn more about Steer: who we are, how we work and what our future holds.