17.10.16
RIA appoints new chief executive
Darren Caplan has been named as the new chief executive of the Rail Industry Association (RIA).
Caplan will take over early next year, replacing David Tonkin, who has acted as interim chief executive since former RIA director general Jeremy Candfield retired due to health reasons in the summmer.
He previously worked as chief executive of the Airport Operators Association, where he campaigned for airport sector growth and fairer levels of aviation tax, winning the Trade Association Forum Award for Association Leadership in July.
“I am tremendously excited to be joining RIA at this key time, when the railway industry is going through such a major modernisation programme, providing huge opportunities for RIA's innovative supplier members,” said Caplan.
“RIA is a fantastic trade association with a strong heritage, and I am looking forward to working with the RIA team to build on its many achievements, and champion the rail supply industry in the months and years ahead.”
Gordon Wakeford, chair of RIA, added that he was delighted to welcome Caplan to RIA, as the new CEO.
“Darren comes with an excellent track record of successfully running a transport trade association, campaigning for sectoral growth, enhancing its performance, and delivering improved member satisfaction scores every year,” noted Wakeford. “The RIA team and members look forward to having Darren on board as we embark on the next stage of the association's development.”
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