We are pleased to announce the appointment of three new Directors to HSRG’s Board with immediate effect, all drawn from HSRG’s membership.
Kate Jennings, Policy Director at RIA; Susan Ryall, Technical Director at Skanska and Tom Wadsworth, Head of Communications, UKI at Siemens Mobility will join the Board with immediate effect during an important period in the development of the UK’s high speed rail network, with HS2 proceeding apace and the Integrated Rail Plan for the Midlands and North expected soon.
The new Board members will support HSRG as the Group seeks to deliver on key priorities in the year ahead. This includes communicating the transformative impact high speed rail will have on the country, by providing increased connectivity and capacity, and facilitating the modal shift that is essential to our net zero goals. By creating a truly national network, high speed rail has a vital role to play in the Government’s levelling up agenda.
Commenting on the appointments, Jim Steer, Board Director at HSRG, said:
“We are delighted with the appointment of Kate, Susan and Tom as new HSRG Board members. Each brings a wealth of experience, complementing the skillset of the existing Board membership very well.”
Kate Jennings said: “I am delighted to be joining the HSRG Board at this important time – with construction underway on Phase One and Government decisions on the Integrated Rail Plan for the North overdue. High Speed rail will transform the UK rail network – improving connectivity, enabling zero carbon travel and supporting productivity, jobs and regional development. Together with HSRG colleagues we can make a really positive difference to ensure rail is at the centre of Government plans to build back better.”
Susan Ryall said: “It’s such an exciting time to join the HSRG Board and personally a much valued opportunity for me to use my industry experience to make a difference. With the Government’s commitment to HS2, especially with Phase 2a gaining Royal Assent extending the line to the North, and the imminent publishing of the Integrated Rail Plan, the sector has a fantastic opportunity to really get behind the net zero carbon by 2050 agenda, attract a more diverse talent pool and boost job creation throughout the UK.”
Tom Wadsworth said: “If we’re serious about decarbonising we need to invest further and faster in cleaner, greener alternatives to road travel and short-haul flights, so I’m delighted to be joining the HSRG Board to continue to make the case for high speed rail.”