Rob Morton has been appointed as the new Managing Director for Route Services at Network Rail, replacing Susan Cooklin.
Mr Morton takes up his new role after a successful private sector career, including senior roles with Centrica and LogicaCMG, before joining Network Rail in June 2017 as Supply Chain Director.
Over the past five years, he has spearheaded Network Rail’s relationships and commercial arrangements with suppliers, led a supply chain cost reduction programme which has saved £330m, and improve logistics capabilities within Network Rail to levels comparable with the best retail and manufacturing operations.
He said: “I am delighted to be succeeding Susan as Managing Director of Route Services and can’t wait to get started.
“While we are facing some challenges as we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, it is an exciting time to be working in the rail industry.
“The Route Services function is a major part of Network Rail and has an important role to play in creating a more reliable and efficient railway. I look forward to playing my part in delivering that as we all work towards a Great British Railway.”
Mr Morton replaces Susan Cooklin, who is leaving Network Rail after 16 years’ service. The two will now begin a handover process to ensure a smooth transition.
Network Rail Chief Executive, Andrew Haines, said: “I am really pleased that Rob will join my Executive Leadership Team and lead our Route Services function. His leadership, diligence, experience and detailed knowledge of Route Services will be vital in continuing Susan’s work.
“I would like to thank Susan for her exemplary service. She has overseen huge steps in our collective efforts to modernise and deliver a better railway for passengers and freight customers and ensured that Route Services has delivered an excellent service for our routes and regions.”
Network Rail’s Route Services supplies critical services for the rail infrastructure operator’s routes and regions which are best provided from a national team, delivering efficiencies and consistency.
It includes business and technical services, commercial and procurement, engineering services, IT services, telecoms, supply chain operators, finance and business support, and HR.
