Media centre

Monday 9 Jul 2018

Board changes at Network Rail

Region & Route:

National

David Noyes, former CEO of Cunard and senior director at BA, has joined Network Rail’s Board as a non-executive director.

David is experienced in leading corporate transformations with a focus on improving customer service whilst driving cost efficiency, and is also skilled in managing devolved businesses in a safety critical industry.

Michael O’Higgins, non-executive director, is retiring and will be leaving the Board on the 31 August 2018.

Sir Peter Hendy, CBE and chair of Network Rail, said: “Having someone with David’s background and experience, particularity in customer services and managing devolved businesses, will be a great asset to the Board as Network Rail continues its transformation journey into a more customer focussed, devolved group of businesses.”

Sir Peter continued: “I’d like to thank Michael for his time with us and his successful contribution to the Board.”

Network Rail also confirmed dates for the change-over of its chief executive.

Mark Carne, the current chief executive, will retire on 13 August and the new chief executive, Andrew Haines will take over on 14 August. Mark will continue working for Network Rail until early September, finishing off his work on the CP6 (Control Period 6 – 2019 to 2024) funding settlement.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• David Noyes has spent his career working in the leisure and transport sectors. Having joined British Airways as a graduate trainee some 30 years ago, he held various senior positions, including heading up BA’s UK Regional operations. He was director, Customer Services when he left in 2008.  Most recently David was CEO of Cunard and P&O Cruises.