The Tyne and Wear Metro has appointed a new Operations Director to lead on service delivery and performance.
Chris Carson has joined DB Regio Tyne and Wear, which operates the Metro on behalf of Nexus, with more than 20 years’ experience in the rail industry.
The 44-year-old’s career history has seen him occupy management roles for both rail infrastructure and operating companies. His most recent role was Head of Business Change at Virgin Trains.
Chris said: “I’m really pleased to join the Metro team and am looking forward to using my knowledge and experience to make a positive change. Everyone has been very welcoming and I’m confident that together we can continue to provide the best possible service to our customers.”
As Operations Director, Chris is responsible for Metro’s day-to-day operations, train performance and long term service and delivery planning. A key focus within his new role going forward will be driving improvement in Metro train performance and ways to enhance employee and customer engagement.
He added: “I understand how important it is to communicate with customers when things don’t go to plan. It is our responsibility to engage with customers during times of disruption to make sure we give them alternative travel choices, preferably before they even leave home or work to travel with us.
“It’s also vitally important for us to continually strive to improve the service we deliver, both in terms of keeping customers informed and in train performance. These things are underpinned by good planning and organisation and this will be a main priority for me.”