Hot on the buffers of their successful alternative fuel trials, DB Cargo UK has announced a programme of technological research and development. The intention is to put the company on the fast tracks to digital transformation.

With Europe entering into the Year of Rail, the UK arm of DB Cargo has put forward its own initiative, to move the company up the technological ladder. The Year of Rail is intended to promote investment in continental railways, and enhance safety, sustainability and modernity.

Boardroom seat

DB Cargo UK has appointed what they call a Transformation Team, dedicated to developing and implement plans to make the company more innovative, agile and efficient, according to their own statement.

Marie Hill, who has stepped up from her post as head of IT at the company, to a boardroom seat as chief transformation and digitalisation officer, is seeking to use of technology to improve operational effectiveness and customer service.

Future strategy

The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the pivotal role digital technologies have to play in supporting modern business. That circumstance has not escaped Hill, who is ready for the challenge. “The creation of the new team will ensure we make the best use of those technologies in all areas of our business, improving our overall effectiveness and efficiency”, she said.

Marie Hill, who has been Head of IT at DB Cargo UK since January 2017, is now a permanent member of the UK Board with immediate effect. Her newly created Transformation Team will work with departments across the business to develop and implement plans to make the company more innovative, agile and efficient, something the company calls a key pillar of its future strategy to improve and grow its business.

Expanding digital capabilities

“I believe that by accelerating and expanding our digital capabilities we will significantly improve the quality of the services we can offer to both existing and new customers”, said DB’s CEO in the UK, Andrea Rossi. “The technological landscape continues to change rapidly.”

Headquartered in Doncaster, the company currently employs around 2200 people all over the UK. Last year, the company successfully tested examples of their diesel fleet, running on biofuels for the first time in the field.