Stagecoach Rail Director to join Network Rail

Tim Shoveller, Managing Director of Stagecoach Group's UK Rail division, is to join Network Rail next month as Regional Managing Director, North West and Central.

He has worked with Stagecoach for nearly 12 years and has more than 25 years' experience in the rail industry in the UK.

Tim Shoveller joined Stagecoach Group in 2007. During his time with the company, he has held the positions of Managing Director of East Midlands Trains and Managing Director of South West Trains. He has been responsible for the management of the Group's existing rail businesses and new business development opportunities since February 2016.

A Fellow of the Institution of Railway Operators, he joined the Group from Virgin Trains and has previously held senior executive roles at Midland Mainline and Eurostar.

Stagecoach Group's rail division incorporates East Midlands Trains and the Supertram light rail network in Sheffield. The Group also has a 49% shareholding in Virgin Rail Group, which operates the Virgin Trains West Coast route.

Martin Griffiths, Stagecoach Group Chief Executive, said: "I would like to thank Tim for his strong contribution to our rail business for more than a decade, during which time he has helped drive our commitment to safety, customer service, innovation and partnership working with stakeholders.

"I am sure Tim will bring a similar ethos to his new role with Network Rail and we wish him every success for the future. Likewise, our rail team will continue to focus relentlessly on putting our customers first and transforming their experience of rail travel."

In his new role, Tim Shoveller will report to Network Rail Chief Executive Andrew Haines and become a member of the executive team.

Tim Shoveller said: "Stagecoach is widely recognised as one of the country's best rail operators and has worked in partnership with Network Rail on many successful initiatives, including our ground-breaking alliancing.

"I look forward to bringing that collaborative working and customer focus to my new role with the country's rail infrastructure operator. At the same time, I would also like to thank the highly professional and innovative team I have worked with at Stagecoach whose expertise will continue to benefit the business."

ENDS