Overlap to allow outgoing Carne to hand over Network Rail’s reins

Outgoing Network Rail Chief Executive Mark Carne has confirmed that there will be an overlap between his successor’s arrival and Carne’s departure.

Speaking at a trade briefing on February 12 to launch NR’s Strategic Business Plan, Carne said: “There will be overlap. I have to give six months’ notice, and if it takes longer then I will stay on. I want to hand over in the best possible way.”

NR had announced his departure the previous week ( RAIL 846).

Carne has been in the position for four years, during which time NR has been reclassified as a public sector body while major projects such as London Bridge remodelling and Birmingham New Street station refurbishment have been carried out. Electrification projects on Edinburgh-Glasgow and Great Western were also delivered late, and in the case of Great Western over budget.

Speaking on February 12 about his decision, Carne said: “I think a tenure of four to seven years is ideal. Four is too short and seven is too long, but I wanted to see through this business plan.”

Carne confirmed that NR Chairman Sir Peter Hendy OBE would lead the process to find his replacement. The recruitment process could not start until Carne’s departure had been announced, and the plan is for someone to be in place by the autumn ready to lead NR into Control Period 6 (the five-year spending period which starts on April 1 2019).

He added: “I have never enjoyed this job more than I do now. It’s been a huge privilege. The first two years were a challenge.”