06.03.17
South West Trains MD steps down after a year in post
The managing director of South West Trains (SWT), Christian Roth, is preparing to step down from the role after one year in the position. It also marks the end of a decade-long tenure at the rail operator.
Roth joined the company in 2008 having led the UK rail business for Siemens. During his time at SWT, he held the role of fleet director before rising to MD in February 2016, when he replaced Tim Shoveller.
Margaret Kay has now been appointed as Roth’s successor for the remainder of the current franchise – which is set to expire in the summer.
Previously, Kay had garnered a great deal of experience, having worked for Stagecoach as an HR director at SWT, before moving to East Midlands Trains, and then rising to managing director of Supertram in 2012.
Her achievements have also been recognised in the most recent Women in Rail survey when she was named one of the UK rail industry’s most inspirational women.
Tim Bilby, Supertram’s head of Finance and Commercial will fill the position left by Kay as interim managing director of the rail operator.
Tim Shoveller, managing director of Stagecoach Group’s UK Rail Division, commented on Roth relinquishing the role, saying: “I would like to thank Christian for his contribution to the business over the past decade and wish him well for the future.”
Shoveller also voiced his faith in Kay as the new managing director: “Margaret is one of the most talented executives in the UK rail industry and is a tremendous role model and mentor for the next generation of young managers.
He added: “She has real understanding of the fundamental role that our people play in delivering a successful railway for our customers every day. I would also like to congratulate Tim Bilby on his appointment at Stagecoach Supertram.”
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