Today, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, and the Board of Transport for London (TfL) have announced the appointment of Andy Lord as London's permanent Transport Commissioner.
After an extensive international search and selection process, Andy emerged as the successful candidate for this crucial role.
Andy joined TfL in November 2019, initially serving as the Managing Director of London Underground. His exceptional leadership led to his promotion in 2022, where he assumed the position of Chief Operating Officer, overseeing all of TfL's operations.
Following the departure of the former Commissioner Andy Byford, Andy Lord took on the role of Commissioner on an interim basis from October 25, 2022.
Since then, he has dedicated his efforts to various vital areas. These include attracting customers back to public transport, revitalising TfL's financial situation, advancing decarbonisation initiatives to enhance London's environment, and developing plans to support TfL's diverse staff and customers further.
Under Andy's guidance, significant milestones have been achieved. Notably, he has overseen the successful completion of the transformative Elizabeth Line railway project, the Bank station upgrade, the formulation of plans for improved bus services in outer London, the establishment of new cycleways, and TfL's efforts in facilitating safe and successful events to commemorate the coronation of HM King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
During his tenure as Managing Director of London Underground, Andy played a pivotal role in managing the transport network's response to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, he was instrumental in ensuring the safe and reliable introduction of Elizabeth line services, the extension of the Northern line, and the expansion of the London Overground to Barking Riverside.
As TfL's Chief Operating Officer, Andy successfully led the operational transport response for various key events held across the city, notably the Platinum Jubilee celebrations and the ceremonial events honouring the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II.
Before joining TfL, Andy Lord amassed a wealth of experience in the commercial aviation sector, boasting nearly 30 years of service. His notable achievements include 26 years at British Airways, where he ultimately held the position of Director of Operations for over seven years. Additionally, he serves as a Non-Executive Director for the UK MoD's Defence Equipment and Support Agency.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “I'm delighted to confirm Andy Lord as London's permanent Transport Commissioner. Andy brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise to lead TfL as we work to deliver the most affordable, accessible and sustainable transport network possible.
“I have seen first-hand Andy's dedication to rebuilding TfL's finances following the devastating impact of the pandemic and his commitment to delivering better services for Londoners and more sustainable travel across the capital, as well as promoting walking and cycling.
“I look forward to working with Andy as we continue building a safer, greener and more prosperous London for everyone – and a transport system that remains the envy of the world.”
Andy Lord, London's Transport Commissioner, said: “Transport for London is an incredible organisation, full of highly committed people who come to work each day to serve our customers and to make the capital a better place. I would like to thank them all for the incredible support they have given me. I am hugely honoured and proud to do this job and to have the opportunity to continue to steer TfL as we move forward with the work of supporting London's recovery from the pandemic, ensuring TfL better reflects the diverse city we serve whilst becoming the green heartbeat of the capital.
“In the months ahead, one of my key focuses will be on securing the long-term Government funding that we need to continue our vital work. With transport authorities across the UK now having long-term ‘London-style' funding agreements in place, London is now ironically the outlier. With the amazing economic driver that is the Elizabeth line, and with our partners and supply chain across the country, we have proven that investment in transport in London can benefit the entire UK. We must now move forward and work together to provide the services and infrastructure that will benefit everyone.”
