17.01.14
New HS2 chief executive announced
Simon Kirby has been appointed as the new chief executive of construction at HS2 Ltd.
Currently the managing director of Network Rail Infrastructure Projects, Kirby has been leading on the company’s huge investment programme, as well as working to improve Network Rail’s relationship with its suppliers.
HS2 chairman, Sir David Higgins, said: “As I start my tenure as chairman of this essential project that will free up much needed capacity on our crowded railways, I am extremely pleased that we have secured Simon to run what will be the biggest infrastructure project in Europe, and one of the biggest in the world.”
Kirby will join HS2 Ltd in June and take up the role from September with a basic salary of £750,000 and no bonus.
Sir David added: “Delivering this project in a way which is not just cost effective, but also delivers its benefits to as much of the country as soon as possible, is a huge engineering project, but Simon has proven throughout his career that he is capable of taking on such a unique challenge.
“I fully realise that the skills he brings to the task are much sought after throughout the world and we are delighted he has agreed to take on the role - and that Alison Munro has agreed to continue in her role of over-seeing both the parliamentary process and the development of Phase Two.
“HS2 has the potential to re-balance the UK economy, easing pressure in the South, and opening up the possibility of growth in the North. We are fortunate to be able to call on the skills and commitment of both Simon and Alison to make that potential a reality.”
Network Rail's chairman, Richard Parry-Jones, said: "Simon has been extremely successful in his ten years with the company, delivering a large range of landmark projects all across the country. He leaves behind him a strong organisation that enjoys excellent relationships with our supply chain partners.
“We are very grateful for everything he has contributed and wish him the very best in his new role at HS2. Going forward the two organisations will be working closely together and Simon's appointment will only serve to reinforce that.”
Alison Munro, the current chief executive, will remain in her role until September, when she will become the managing director of development to see the passage of the Hybrid Bill through parliament and the second phase of the project.
The Dec/Jan 2014 edition of RTM includes an in-depth article about Network Rail Infrastructure Projects' plans for CP5, with lots of input from Kiby.
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