Anthony Francis is a consultant providing support to the public transport industry, having worked for both local and central government, as well as in the industry itself, in a variety of senior roles. He started work with London Transport (now Transport for London) and through subsequent appointments in bus operating, commercial and legal appointments moved to the then National Bus Company. He then became involved with the development of the National Express coach network, before moving to Kent County Council, becoming, in due course, Head of Passenger Transport Services. In this position, he successfully developed partnerships between bus operators, local authorities and other involved stakeholders, including the concept of 'total transport', where services are designed for a variety of community needs. He worked closely with the Education and Health Services to identify where their travel needs could efficiently be planned and incorporated into the wider transport network.
This led to a move to Arriva where the link between operator and the local authorities was strengthened. He then took an appointment with the Strategic Rail Authority and subsequently to the Department for Transport.