The East Lancashire Railway has confirmed two new appointments to the railway’s Board of Directors.

Phil Warren has been appointed Director of Commercial Services, and Phil Mckennell has been appointed Director of Partnerships and Contracts.

Both appointments followed an internal and external recruitment process, and they join the Board at a challenging time where, to preserve the railway’s long history, it needs to increase revenues and secure new partnerships which help to help make the railway sustainable.

Phil Warren brings to the railway his experience of founding and developing his own business within the health and public safety sector.

With nearly 25 years’ experience at a senior leadership level, he has extensive expertise in running private ambulances, arranging medical provision at various events, and supplying services to organisations in railway heritage and other sectors.

Phil will support the Commercial Manager in increasing income and developing the railway’s commercial strategy, whilst at board level, he oversees all commercial operations, including events, partnerships, retail, hospitality, and visitor income.

The East Lancashire Railway has recently introduced a Residents Permit scheme for residents of Bury, Rochdale, and Rossendale that allows them to travel on the railway at a discount.

Phil McKennell’s appointment as Director of Partnerships and Contracts is a new board portfolio.

He will focus on developing rail-related partnerships that build on the railway’s recent agreement with Network Rail.

Phil will also work closely with the General Manager to unlock new revenue streams and work to establish mutually beneficial partnerships that will deliver sustainable financial growth.

Phil has over 40 years of experience as a senior leader in rail and logistics, and with his extensive knowledge of the rail industry, he has a strong network of industry contacts.

He has a track record in driving revenue growth and developing effective commercial strategies, and extensive experience in leading stakeholder engagement across rail, intermodal freight, and transport services.

“The East Lancashire Railway has always been important to me as a local resident, and I had long intended to contribute. With earlier work commitments now reduced, I am now able to play a more active role. I joined the Board to make a positive and proactive contribution, applying my commercial and leadership experience to support the railway’s long-term sustainability and community impact. I am excited to roll up my sleeves and to meet the excellent staff and dedicated volunteers.”

Phil Mckennell