The Big Coach Conversation marked a major moment for the coach and larger vehicle profession. As the first and only industry-wide event dedicated solely to this sector, it brought together professionals from across the country for a day of insightful discussion, collaboration, and forward-thinking. Attendees experienced a full programme of thought-provoking panels, engaging Q&A sessions, and valuable networking opportunities.
The event lived up to its name, sparking important conversations and connecting voices from every corner of the industry. A standout highlight was the Beyond Awards in the evening, where leading individuals were honoured for their outstanding contributions to the sector. The awards provided a memorable close to a powerful and energising day. While this was the first Big Coach Conversation, it certainly won’t be the last. Plans are already underway for what’s next – and the industry can expect another opportunity to connect, reflect, and innovate in the near future.
We sourced the UK’s most prominent champions of coach to share their insights at The Big Coach Conversation.
Check out our lineup below.
Ian Jeffrey
Director of Great British Rail Replacement, CMAC
Mark Kipling
Director, Crescar
Daniel Lunn
Daniel Lunn, Commercial Director, C9 Recruitment
Laura Hadzik
Partner, JMW
Edward Thomas
Chief Executive Officer Europe – ComfortDelGro
Franck Dessenis
COO, Zeelo
Tom Stables
CEO, The Coach Travel Group
Neil Micklethwaite
Chair of TeamBA, Chair of SLC, Director of Crescar
Marina Garyfalou
Zero Emission Bus Development Manager, Transport for London
Darran Harris
Solicitor and Director, FCILT, CheckedSafe
Paul Coates
Director, McCarron Coates
Phil Schofield
Procurement Manager, First Travel Solutions
Leon Hart
Managing Director, George Regal
Derbyshire County Cricket Club
The County Ground, Nottingham Rd, Chaddesden, Derby DE21 6DA