HS2 has appointed Howard Smith as Interim Chief Operations Officer (COO), creating a new executive role aimed at ensuring the UK's new high-speed railway is designed and delivered with future operations and passenger needs firmly in mind.
The appointment marks a significant step in bringing operational expertise into the heart of HS2's leadership team as the project progresses through its construction phase towards eventual railway operations.
As Interim COO, Smith will provide a single operational voice within HS2, helping to align the programme's delivery with the requirements of future train operators, passengers and the wider rail network. The role will also support closer integration between HS2 and Britain's existing railway infrastructure, ensuring the new line operates seamlessly as part of the national network.
Working as a member of the HS2 executive team, Smith will oversee the organisation's Operations and Maintenance function while collaborating closely with colleagues at Network Rail and West Coast Partnership Development.
Focus on Future Railway Operations
Announcing the appointment, Mark Wild, Chief Executive Officer of HS2, highlighted the importance of ensuring the railway is not only built successfully but also ready for efficient and reliable operation from day one.
“I am delighted that Howard is joining HS2 in the newly established role of Chief Operations Officer. Whilst many of the 31,000 people working on HS2 at the moment are focused on delivering the impressive engineering and structures of the railway, it is critical that we are delivering a railway that is fit for operation and passengers. Having a single voice representing the future operator will help us deliver HS2 to open as an integrated part of the national railway network.”
The move reflects growing industry collaboration as preparations continue for the introduction of high-speed services and the integration of HS2 infrastructure with the wider rail system.
Strengthening Industry Collaboration
Welcoming the appointment, Julien Dehornoy, North West & Central Deputy Regional Managing Director at Network Rail, said the role would play an important part in ensuring a smooth transition to future operations.
“We’re already working closely with HS2 to get the railway ready for future high-speed services. From delivering major changes to the existing network through our On Network Works programme, to our specialist teams planning how HS2 services will operate seamlessly alongside the existing railway, we’re working with partners across the industry to make sure passengers feel the benefits of a better-connected railway.
“Howard’s appointment is an important step in that journey, and I look forward to working with him to help ensure a smooth transition towards the future operation of HS2”
Industry leaders view the appointment as another important milestone in establishing clear operational accountability for the future management of both HS2 services and their interaction with the West Coast Main Line.
40 Years of Railway Experience
Smith brings four decades of railway experience to the role, including 25 years at Transport for London (TfL). Until last year, he served as Director of the Elizabeth Line, where he played a pivotal role in overseeing the railway's transition into operation and its integration with the wider network.
He is also familiar with HS2, having recently provided independent expert advice on railway operations to the project.
His extensive operational background is expected to help ensure that decisions being made today on railway systems, infrastructure and maintenance are aligned with the requirements of tomorrow's operators and passengers.
Image credit: HS2
