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Women in Transport: Team Member Insight - Tanya Purves

March 09, 2026 in Team Profile

Current job title

PMO Manager

What does your current job involve?

As a PMO Manager, my role focuses on supporting the successful delivery of projects and programmes. I work closely with project teams to ensure strong governance, effective planning, clear reporting so that projects stay on track and deliver their intended outcomes and benefits.

Although I've since moved into the environmental sector, many of the skills from my previous role remain highly relevant. Both industries are increasingly focused on sustainability targets and delivering meaningful environmental outcomes, so the ability to manage programmes effectively and track progress against those goals are essential.

What's the best thing about your job?

The best thing about working in PMO is the variety. You get to work with a wide range of people and projects and no two days are the same!

I enjoy the strategic side of the role, which relies on helping connect the bigger picture with the day to day delivery of projects. There is something very satisfying about seeing a complex programme come together and knowing that the structure and support you have put in place has helped make that happen.

How did you become involved in the transport industry?

My journey into the industry began as an intern at Network Rail, before progressing through a graduate placement. I steadily built my career from a Consultant to a Senior Consult, specialising in project management and leading the delivery of complex projects. I have worked on a variety of rail projects focused on infrastructure development, sustainability, accessibility, diversity, and emerging technologies.

What do you like about working in transport?

The transport sector is full of passionate, knowledgeable professionals and everyone seems to have a great story about how they ended up in the industry and why they've stayed. It's one of those sectors where you can start a conversation about a project and suddenly find yourself learning about everything from rail infrastructure to decarbonisation targets.

I love how collaborative the industry is. You're surrounded by incredibly talented women and supportive allies who are all working towards improving the way people and goods move around the UK. We still have a long way to go to get to a place where equity, diversity and accessibility are innate within decision making but I feel that the industry is full of people that believe in the same mission as Women in Transport, making the industry even better. Not only do you get to meet inspiring people and hear their experience but gain a lovely community that support each other along the way.

The industry is constantly evolving, meaning there is always something new to learn. Let's be honest, it's one of the few sectors where talking about trains, buses and all things transport can somehow become genuinely exciting!

What are you most proud of?

The past couple of years have been a big period of change for me. I became a new mum in 2024, stepped into the Deputy Regional Lead role with Women in Transport in 2025 and started a new role in the environmental sector.

Balancing motherhood, a new leadership role and a career change has definitely pushed me outside my comfort zone but it is something I am incredibly proud of. It's shown me that growth often comes from embracing change. Women in Transport has been incredibly important as I have been able to find a community of inspiring women and allies who understand the realities of balancing careers, ambition and life beyond work!

Why did you join Women in Transport?

I joined Women in Transport in 2018 as a member to expand my network and explore the career support available for women in the sector. Being part of the Women in Transport community has allowed me to connect with inspiring professionals and participate in conversations about the challenges and positive changes shaping the future of transport.

What is your role at Women in Transport?

Deputy Regional Lead - Scotland Hub

What do you enjoy most about being part of Women in Transport?

The best thing about being part of Women in Transport? The people! I've had the chance to meet so many inspiring individuals across the transport industry, which is full of fascinating stories, diverse experiences and people who are willing to share what they have learned.

Being surrounded by such amazing professionals is genuinely motivating. Now, one of my favourite parts is planning events for the hub. There is something really special about bringing people together and creating spaces for connection. It really is a joy seeing the network grow and support each other.


Annual membership of Women in Transport is £60 per year providing access to professional development and networking opportunities. We very much welcome guest blogs from our members - a great way to share the incredible diversity of opportunity in transport, raise your profile and connect with our community. Join us today.

Follow us on Linkedin at Women in Transport and at @transportwmn on Instagram for events, news and updates.

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