The Rail Safety and Standards Board has announced that Johnny Schute OBE, its Chief Operating Officer, will retire in April 2026, concluding a remarkable 45-year career spanning the British Army and the UK rail industry.
Johnny joined RSSB in 2018, where he has played a pivotal role in delivering the organisation’s technical mission. As COO, he has led work across Railway Standards, Safety Strategy, Rail Research, Sustainability, the Futures Lab, and the Business Management Office.
Known for his strategic insight, operational expertise, and collaborative leadership, Johnny has helped guide RSSB through some of the most complex challenges facing Britain’s railway system.
Commenting on his time in rail, Johnny said:
“After a full military career serving across many operational theatres, I have been privileged to spend 10 fascinating and stimulating years in the rail sector.
“The last seven have been at RSSB, which could not have been more professionally rewarding and enjoyable, working with an outstanding team dedicated to making rail safer and better.
“I will miss both colleagues and friends, and I look forward to observing - as an active rail user - the continued progress of RSSB and the rail industry in their ongoing journey of reform and modernisation.”
Johnny’s career began in the British Army, where he served for 35 years in senior operational and leadership roles. Before joining RSSB, he held key positions at the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), focusing on safety, regulation, and performance.
Mark Phillips, Chief Executive of the RSSB, added:
“It has been a privilege to have Johnny working alongside me for the past seven years. He has brought expertise, energy, focus and good humour to our work and the transformation of RSSB into an important and highly respected technical body supporting Britain’s rail industry.
“We wish Johnny well in his future retirement."
A recruitment process will begin shortly to appoint his successor, ensuring a smooth transition and continued delivery of RSSB’s strategic priorities.
Image credit: Rail Safety and Standards Board
