New MD to get West rail back on track
A TRANSPORT expert who previously ran what might be the world’s finest daily commuter service is taking control of the railways in the West.
Sitting with a coffee on the top deck of one of the iconic ferries that shuttle across Sydney Harbour between the northern beaches and the Sydney Opera House is about as relaxing as commuting gets.
Certainly more relaxing than squeezing into a packed railway carriage between Bristol Temple Meads and Bath Spa anyway.
But Michelle Handforth, who has been appointed managing director of Network Rail’s Wales & Western region, is looking forward to the challenge of managing the West’s rail infrastructure.
She said: “I’m delighted to be appointed as managing director of Wales & Western and to return to the rail industry at such a critical time. I look forward to working with colleagues and industry partners to welcome passengers back to the railway by providing the best possible service.”
She has had a varied career in international transport, having previously being general manager for Sydney Ferries, chief executive of Aberdeen Harbour Board and managing director of Babcock Offshore Helicopters in the North Sea oil industry.
She also previously worked in rail at Great North Eastern Railways and with First Group on franchise bids.
Andrew Haines, chief executive of Network Rail, said: “I’m pleased we could bring Michelle back into the rail industry. It’s been a difficult year and she’ll bring a fresh perspective to help us navigate through these challenging times.”
She will take up her role in the summer after being appointed following an open competition to find Mark Langman’s replacement following his retirement.