The Rail Delivery Group (RDG) has announced the appointment of David Brown, Managing Director UK Trains at Arriva, as its new Chair. Brown, a seasoned industry veteran with extensive experience on the RDG board, succeeds Steve Montgomery in leading the organisation into a pivotal chapter.
Brown brings a wealth of expertise honed across various leadership roles in the railway sector. As Chair, he will steer the RDG board, ensure its effectiveness, and set the strategic direction for the organisation. His brief will also include fostering collaboration among the country’s train operators and Network Rail, but also, driving initiatives to enhance customer experience and performance.
"I speak for the entire rail industry when I say how grateful I am to Steve for his leadership through the unique challenges the sector faced during the pandemic. " stated Jacqueline Starr, RDG chief executive. "His commitment and leadership through several challenging years, not least the pandemic and the changing travel patterns of customers and the industrial relations landscape, are testament to his spirit and love for the industry."
Starr lauded Brown's passion for rail, recognising his dedication to improving customer journeys and tackling some of the industry’s crucial issues. “With David’s appointment, the sector has another passionate champion, someone who recognises the enduring value and importance of rail in the 21st century and supports the work we are doing to deliver a better railway for our customers."
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Brown commented, “I am really pleased to have this opportunity to help provide leadership for the rail industry at such a crucial time. After unprecedented challenges in recent years, the railways can have a very bright future through meeting the needs of customers and the communities we serve.”
Brown emphasised the importance of attracting customers back to rail and fostering industry-wide collaboration. "While long-term reform remains important, we must continue to attract customers to rail now, and to do that the industry needs to work collaboratively, with a relentless focus on delivering improvements and enhancing performance."
Photo: RDG
