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Friday 6 Nov 2020

Andrew Haines recognised for outstanding contribution to the rail sector

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National

Network Rail chief executive, Andrew Haines, was honoured for his outstanding contribution to the rail sector at the Railway Industry Association (RIA)’s Rail Industry Supplier Excellence (RISE) awards (4 November).

The special award was given to Andrew by the RIA Board in recognition of his outstanding leadership of the industry – particularly in the challenging circumstances posed by the COVID-19 pandemic – and to thank him for his close collaboration and engagement with the rail supply industry this year.

Sir Peter Hendy CBE, Network Rail’s chair, said: “Under Andrew’s leadership, Network Rail has worked closely with our industry partners to respond robustly to the challenges faced during coronavirus. We have amended timetables to ensure vital services continue to run reliably for critical workers and freight goods, introduced new working methods to make sure our employees and contractors can work safely on the railway, and supported the supply chain by moving to immediate payment terms from March.

“I would like to join the RIA Board in thanking Andrew for his contribution during these unprecedented times, and I know that under his leadership we will continue to respond and adapt effectively in the months ahead. In the longer term, we’ll be working to build railway that is fit for a new era - for example by reflecting new working and travelling habits – and make sure we provide passengers with not only a reliable service, but also a sustainable railway that is the greenest and cleanest way to travel.”

Darren Caplan, Chief Executive of the Railway Industry Association (RIA), said: “We’re very happy to give this ‘Special Award’ to Andrew Haines, as part of our celebration of Rail Industry Supplier Excellence.

“Coronavirus has posed a significant challenge to everyone this year, including of course the railway industry. The RIA Board really wanted to recognise Andrew Haines’ outstanding work, accessibility, supplier engagement, and leadership over 2020. He has worked tirelessly and collaboratively with RIA and rail suppliers, speedily implementing a number of measures, including prompt payments commitments, that helped keep the network moving and the industry functioning at such a critical time.

“On behalf of everyone at RIA, the Board and our members, many congratulations to Andrew for this well-deserved award, in this most difficult of years.”

Prior to COVID-19, Andrew had demonstrated his commitment to finding new and innovative ways to work and engage with the railway supply chain, including by improving procurement practices, ensuring that business changes and updates are communicated effectively, and building support for Network Rail’s top priority – putting passengers first