The National Centre for Accessible Transport (ncat) has appointed Emma Partlow as its new chief executive officer (CEO).
Ms Partlow will officially assume her role on 24 November 2025, joining ncat from her previous role as director of engagement and policy at Transreport.
With expertise in both accessibility and transport, Ms Partlow has spent her career enhancing travel experiences for disabled people.
She was named among the UK’s most influential Disabled People in the Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 in 2024 for her significant impact on the transport sector, and her leadership has helped make transport more equitable by driving advancements in both technology and policy.
Keith Richards, chair of the ncat Board, said: ‘Emma’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for ncat. Her deep understanding of the barriers people face when trying to access transport, and her proven ability to build partnerships across sectors will be invaluable as we continue to work with all our stakeholders to collectively push for transport systems that are inclusive for everyone.’
Ms Partlow added: ‘I am honoured to be appointed as CEO of ncat at such a pivotal time for accessible and inclusive transport. I look forward to working closely with our partners, funders, and communities to ensure that accessibility is embedded as a foundation, not an afterthought in the design and delivery of transport services and solutions. Through co-produced research and evidence-led approaches, ncat will continue to shape industry decision-making and drive lasting, systemic change.’
Lisa Jones, chief operating officer (COO) at Motability Foundation, which funds ncat, said: ‘The Motability Foundation believes that all disabled people should be able to make the journeys they choose, and we look forward to working closely with ncat and Emma Partlow as they gather the evidence and insight the sector needs to inform a more inclusive transport system.’
