dft aberdeen nov 2026 event

Hosted by the DfT and industry partners, the event will bring together small businesses, VCSE organisations, public sector organisations, and major suppliers to share opportunities, build connections, and support greater engagement across the transport supply chain.

Meet RISQS

Paul Haynes, Assistant Scheme Manager at RISQS, will be attending the event and available throughout the day to discuss:

  • how RISQS supports assurance and supplier visibility across the rail industry.
  • The role of supplier qualification within the rail procurement process.
  • What buyers look for when identifying and engaging potential suppliers.
  • How organisations can demonstrate capability, compliance, and readiness to work within the rail sector.
  • The benefits of joining and maintaining RISQS certification.

Whether you're already working in rail or exploring opportunities in the sector, Paul will be happy to answer questions and provide practical guidance relevant to your organisation.

Why attend?

The event offers the opportunity to:

  • Hear directly from senior leaders within the DfT and partner organisations.
  • Build connections with buyers, suppliers, and organisations operating across the transport sector.
  • Learn about upcoming opportunities, supplier engagement initiatives, and procurement pipelines.
  • Understand how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and VCSE organisations can access and participate in public sector contracts and supply chains.
  • Exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore opportunities for collaboration.

Event highlights

The programme includes:

  • A keynote address from Paul Rodgers, Department for Transport Group Commercial Director and Government Commercial Function Leadership Group SME Sponsor.
  • Networking opportunities with representatives from the DfT, HS2 Ltd, Network Rail, National Highways, and other major organisations.
  • Insights from key suppliers on becoming a successful subcontractor within established supply chains.
  • Guidance from the Crown Commercial Service on SME- and VCSE-friendly frameworks, and how organisations can access them.

Event details

  • Date: 11 November 2026
  • Time: 10:00 to 3:00pm
  • Venue: Leonardo Hotel and Conference Centre, Aberdeen Airport, Argyll Road, Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, AB21 0AF

Register to attend

Places are available through the DfT registration process.

Complete the registration form to secure your place at the event.