Siemens Mobility has announced a major leadership change for its UK & Ireland operations. Effective 1 January 2026, Aglaja Schneider takes on the role of Joint Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director for Rolling Stock and Customer Services, succeeding Sambit Banerjee, who retires after an impressive 30-year career with Siemens.
Schneider joins the existing senior leadership team, working alongside Rob Morris (Joint UK&I CEO) and Marko Feulner (Chief Financial Officer and Chair of the Board UK&I). Together, they will continue driving Siemens Mobility’s mission to transform rail travel and transport across the country.
Michael Peter, CEO and Managing Director of Siemens Mobility, said:
“Aglaja’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the UK and Irish rail industries, as we look to deliver Britain’s first battery bi-mode trains from Goole, digitalise signalling from Chippenham, and train the next generation of rail engineers in Northampton. The UK and Ireland are amongst our key markets, and with Aglaja, Rob's and Marko's leadership, alongside our innovative and sustainable rail portfolio,… “
“I am confident we are well positioned to transform rail travel and transport in the UK and Ireland.”
Schneider brings a wealth of experience to the role. Most recently, she served as Project Director for the Piccadilly line and Head of the London Deep Tube Upgrade Programme, overseeing one of the UK’s most significant rail projects. Her work has focused on delivering next-generation Tube trains to improve capacity, accessibility, and passenger experience.
Aglaja Schneider, Joint UK&I CEO and Managing Director for Rolling Stock and Customer Services, said:
“I am excited to take on the role of Joint CEO at a time when the UK rail industry is entering a transformative phase, with rail reform accelerating and Great British Railways bringing track and train closer together to improve passenger journeys. This is a moment that calls for bold thinking and strong collaboration. I will continue to work with our partners and customers as we strive to transform rail travel and transport for everyone.”
The appointment comes during a period of strong growth for Siemens Mobility in the UK. Recent milestones include the opening of a £6 million Multi-Functional Centre at Kings Heath Depot in Northampton, and significant investment in British manufacturing. The company is committing up to £240 million to its Rail Village in Goole, Yorkshire, where future battery bi-mode trains will be built, and a further £100 million in Chippenham, Wiltshire, for its new Rail Technology Centre, set to open later this year.
Image credit: Siemens
