The creation of the leadership team for the Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern (TSGN) franchise is underway and Govia (65% Go-Ahead / 35% Keolis joint venture) has confirmed Southeastern Managing Director Charles Horton will be the Chief Executive Officer joined by Wilma Allan as Chief Financial Officer (currently Finance & Contracts Director at Southeastern and London Midland) of GTR (Govia Thameslink Railway).
CEO of Go-Ahead, David Brown, said:
“Both Charles and Wilma have a wealth of experience of successfully leading complex and challenging franchises, managing change and delivering improvements for customers and employees. Our plan is to put together a great team to oversee the largest franchise in the UK – which has more passengers, trains, revenue and staff than any other – and this is an excellent start.”
A recruitment process will commence for the MD role at Southeastern and the FD role at London Midland. Elodie Brian, currently Southeastern’s Deputy Finance Director will be promoted to Finance & Contracts Director for Southeastern.
Charles Horton said:
“I am very much looking forward to the opportunity of running the TSGN franchise. I will leave Southeastern after eight very rewarding years with many fond memories and pride at what has been achieved.”
Wilma Allan added:
“Like Charles I’ve very much enjoyed my time with Southeastern and London Midland and am proud to have worked with such dedicated colleagues. I’m looking forward to the challenges the UK’s largest franchise brings.”
