29.01.13
TfGM appoints new Metrolink director
Peter Cushing has been appointed as the new Metrolink Director, TfGM has announced.
Cushing will succeed Philip Purdy, who is returning to Australia for family reasons, from February 4.
Cushing’s was operations director at Central Trains from March 2003 and January 2005, working as part of the team involved in remapping the heavy rail network, and working on the bid teams for several projects. He has since worked with the Metrolink team on a long-term but interim basis.
Cllr Andrew Fender, chair of the TfGM committee, said: “Peter’s appointment puts Metrolink in very capable hands. He is thought of very highly within the industry and brings a great deal of experience to the role.
“In recent years he has been supporting the existing team while we deliver the £1.4bn Metrolink expansion and, in doing so, has built up a thorough understanding of the network.
“In welcoming Peter, we have to bid farewell to Philip who has steered Metrolink through the most challenging period in its history with grace, professionalism and absolute dedication. We wish him and his family the very best for the future.”
Cushing expressed his delight and said: “For me, the aim is to continue the fantastic work Philip and his team have done in very challenging circumstances: managing the delivery of the expansion – the largest transport project in the country outside London – at the same time as running an effective day-to-day operation.
“Passengers want a service that is reliable, clean, efficient, and focused on their needs – that’s what our focus is and will continue to be as we grow.”
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