David Boot to lead strategic push for RHA amid sector transformation
David Boot has been appointed as the UK Director of Public Affairs and Policy at the Road Haulage Association (RHA), a role he will formally take up on 29 September. He joins the RHA from London North Eastern Railway (LNER), where he led the Stakeholder Team and managed public affairs and community engagement across a network stretching from London to Inverness.
The appointment is seen as a strategic move to enhance the RHA’s influence and advocacy capabilities at multiple levels of government and policymaking. Richard Smith, Managing Director of the RHA, expressed strong confidence in Boot’s ability to bolster the association's voice in Westminster, the devolved administrations, and regional government bodies. Smith highlighted Boot’s extensive experience with major transport infrastructure organisations and his proven record in political engagement and policy influence as critical assets for representing the needs of coach, heavy goods vehicle (HGV), and van operators effectively.
Boot brings nearly two decades of experience in public affairs, policy development, and stakeholder engagement spanning the transport, science, and education sectors. His previous roles include notable tenures at Gatwick Airport, National Highways, the National Association of Head Teachers, and the National Oceanography Centre. Beginning his career at DeHavilland and gaining consultancy experience further enriched his understanding of the UK's complex political landscape, equipping him to navigate and influence it on behalf of the RHA’s members.
In his statement on the appointment, Boot emphasised the significance of the role amid a period of considerable transformation in the road transport sector. He cited pressing challenges such as decarbonisation, infrastructure development, and workforce shortages—issues that are central to the sector’s future. Boot expressed his commitment to working collaboratively with members, industry partners, and policymakers across the UK to help shape a sustainable and positive future for road transport.
This move comes at a time when the broader public affairs landscape in the UK continues to evolve, with a series of recent appointments across government departments and advisory bodies signalling ongoing shifts in policy leadership and strategic priorities. These changes underline the importance of having experienced professionals like Boot in key industry roles who can effectively advocate for sectors facing rapid and complex change.
The RHA's decision to strengthen its public affairs leadership fits into a wider context of transport and infrastructure sectors seeking stronger representation and proactive engagement with policymakers to address the dynamic challenges and opportunities ahead.