Business Daily Group (BDG) has appointed Tony Kearns CDir FIoD FPWI as Special Advisor to its Board, effective 1 October 2025. The appointment follows BDG’s acquisition of Rail Industry Connect, the Group’s fast-growing rail media, data, and business growth platform.
In this role, Mr Kearns will provide independent board-level counsel, focusing on strategic growth, governance, and performance oversight. He will also represent BDG at senior industry forums, board meetings, and global events, ensuring the Group’s voice is heard at the highest levels of the international rail sector.
Widely regarded as one of the most respected leaders in rail, Tony Kearns brings over 30 years’ experience shaping some of the UK and world’s most ambitious infrastructure programmes. His track record includes joint venture board roles delivering on some of the UK’s most high-profile rail programmes, including HS2, Crossrail, the Great Western Main Line electrification, and the West Coast Route Modernisation.
A Chartered Director and current Council Member of the Institute of Directors, and a Fellow of the Permanent Way Institution, Tony’s career spans consulting, contracting and client-side leadership in the UK and internationally. He founded and led a rail consultancy for 12 years before selling it to AECOM in 2010. He has chaired safety, governance and technical boards for SYSTRA, WSP and Rhomberg Sersa, and his international portfolio includes advisory roles in Europe, North America, and Asia, particularly in advancing innovation in decarbonisation, hydrogen technology, and modern construction methods.
BDG’s rail portfolio, anchored by Rail Industry Connect, delivers trusted news, analysis, and commercial growth platforms for the rail industry in the UK and worldwide. The wider Group also operates Project Management Global, FM Business Daily, FM Recruiter and Rail Recruiter, giving BDG a unique reach across transport, infrastructure, and facilities management.
David McLoughlin, Chairman of Business Daily Group, said: “Tony brings unrivalled expertise in governance, technical leadership and strategic foresight. His independence, authority, and international standing will be invaluable as we accelerate the growth of Rail Industry Connect and expand BDG’s wider portfolio.”
Paul Meersman, Chief Executive of Business Daily Group, added: “Our strategy is built on sustainable growth, innovation and world-class partnerships. Tony’s reputation and global network will help us deliver on that ambition at pace.”
Tony Kearns, commenting on his appointment, said: “Business Daily Group is a dynamic, ambitious organisation with a clear commitment to independence and innovation. I am delighted to join at such a pivotal time and to support Rail Industry Connect and the wider Group in delivering their vision.”
