The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has confirmed interim leadership arrangements ahead of the departure of its Chief Executive, John Larkinson, who will step down later this month.
Following consideration by the ORR Board, Feras Alshaker, currently Director of Planning and Performance, has been appointed Interim Chief Executive, with effect from Monday 27 April.
In his current role, Alshaker holds senior responsibility for the regulation of Britain’s rail network and England’s strategic road network, including direct oversight of Network Rail, HS1 and National Highways. His appointment is intended to ensure stability and continuity at a pivotal moment for the regulator and the wider transport sector.
Alshaker brings nearly a decade of experience at ORR, during which he has led major regulatory interventions affecting passengers, freight users and taxpayers. His leadership has played a key role in strengthening performance, accountability and value across the rail and roads sectors.
The interim appointment comes as ORR continues to deliver its Transformation Programme and prepares for significant structural and regulatory change. Key priorities during this period include supporting rail reform, advancing regulatory reform, and increasing the use of artificial intelligence to enhance regulatory effectiveness and insight.
Declan Collier, Chair at the Office of Rail and Road, said:
“I am very pleased that Feras has agreed to take on the role of Interim Chief Executive. His experience, leadership and deep understanding of ORR will be invaluable as we continue to deliver our priorities for rail reform and navigate a period of significant change.”
Feras Alshaker said:
“I am grateful to the Board for the confidence they have placed in me. I am proud to lead ORR in this interim period as we continue our transformation, support rail reform and ensure effective, proportionate regulation that delivers for passengers, freight users and taxpayers.”
John Larkinson and Feras Alshaker will work closely together over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth and orderly transition ahead of Larkinson’s departure later in April.
Image credit: ORR
