Train operator Northern has appointed Marks & Spencer executive, Lisa Leighton as its new People Director, responsible for the support of its 7,000 strong workforce spread across the North of England.
Hailing from West Yorkshire, Lisa comes into the role with an extensive HR background, coupled with a plethora of experience from telecoms, financial services and retail.
Officially joining the organisation today, Monday 16th January, Lisa’s jurisdiction will be to manage the employee relations and recruitment aspect of the business, as well as the organisation's industry-leading learning and talent programmes. This appointment accompanies Northern’s recently renewed focus to champion the employee experience and engagement across its network.
Representing the second largest train operator across the UK, seeing almost 2,500 services a day spread across more than 500 stations throughout the North of England, a mammoth workforce is required to ensure smooth operations across the network. Lisa will have her work cut out for her to manage and develop the existing personnel, whilst recruiting strong candidates to further catalyse growth.
Commenting on her appointment, Nick Donovan, managing director of Northern, said:
“Lisa has an impressive track record at developing inclusive organisational culture and we’re excited to add her extensive skills and experience to our leadership team.”
Lisa added:
“The rail industry is going through a period of huge change, and I look forward to working with colleagues at Northern to lead the way in the industry and build a new future for colleagues and customers.”
Outside of work, Leighton is a listening volunteer for the Samaritans, a suicide prevention charity with a long association with the rail industry.
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