Train operating company (TOC) CrossCountry has a new Service Delivery Director.
Steve Hopkinson will be joining the TOC from Network Rail in the spring. He brings with him more than 30 years' experience of working in the rail industry.
His first job was with Regional Railways Northeast in the early 1990s and quickly became a conductor. Moving rapidly through various grades, he then took up leadership roles in several TOCs. He was in charge of strategic development and the delivery of major operations for Northern before becoming Regional Director for Northern's biggest region.
His most recent role was as Operations Director at Network Rail, leading on the strategic delivery of infrastructure planning and operations for the East Midlands route.
Steve will be moving into a pivotal role at CrossCountry and will be tasked with overseeing the delivery of the TOC's service to customers, and providing strategic leadership to operations teams.
Tom Joyner, Managing Director at CrossCountry, said: “Steve joins CrossCountry at an exciting time where we have just begun our journey on the new National Rail Contract. His leadership will be vital in providing stability to the business and improving performance. With his vast experience I look forward to working with him to drive the business forward.”
He will have a baptism of fire with that task, customer satisfaction on the long distance routes at an all time low due to short sets and lack of seating. Unfortunately got rid of the HST’s too early before replacements have arrived. Long distance services just lacking in seats and sets too short.
Delivery of some new trains would be nice if it ever bappens, preferably ones which can cope with a bit of sea spray on Dawlish sea wall.