FIRSTGROUP has named the managing director who will take over at First Capital Connect later this month, when incumbent Neal Lawson moves to Network Rail.
The new man at the top is David Statham, whose experience goes back to British Rail days more than 20 years ago, when he joined as a management trainee. In modern times he has been in charge of various FCC projects, including management of the operator's side of the Thameslink Programme, and most recently led First's bid team for the replacement Thameslink franchise from 2014, for which First is currently shortlisted.
David takes over officially on 24 May. He said: “I look forward to leading the team at First Capital Connect as we continue to improve the service we offer our customers and deliver considerable further infrastructure and capacity increases for our passengers, partners and stakeholders.
"I am determined to focus on improving customer satisfaction, which is at the heart of all our business decisions, by delivering solid performance, a clean train environment and the best possible response and information during times of disruption."
FirstGroup’s UK Rail managing director Vernon Barker added: “I am delighted to welcome David to his new role. He will lead the First Capital Connect team at a crucial time as the return to rail franchising gathers pace and we move ahead with the next stage of the Thameslink Programme. I would also like to thank Neal for the significant contribution he has made to our business. He leaves First Capital Connect in great shape for the next phase of the franchise, and we wish him all the best for the future.”