Richard George and Sir Andrew Haines have been appointed by Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander MP to bring extensive experience that will improve passenger experience and operational performance under Great British Railways.
Richard George has been appointed Chair of Network Rail, the public body that owns, operates, maintains and develops Britain’s railway infrastructure.
Sir Andrew Haines will become Chair of Department for Transport Operator Limited (DFTO), the government body bringing all currently privately-owned train services into public ownership ahead of the creation of Great British Railways (GBR).
With significant experience in the rail industry, both appointees will support the government’s mission to bring together track and train. This is intended to ensure the delivery of a better service for passengers across Britain, including Portsmouth.
Richard has 45 years of experience operating at the most senior level in the UK transport industry and is the current chair of DFTO. His extensive career includes roles as Managing Director of Great Western Trains and HS1 Project Director for Eurostar, as well as an advisor to DfT on matters relating to rail performance and investment in the north of England. Prior to privatisation, Richard had 20 years of railway management experience with British Rail.
Sir Andrew has overseen rail and transport at the highest level, most recently as CEO of Network Rail between 2018 and 2025, where he maintained a strong focus on putting passengers first and driving improved performance. Prior to this, Sir Andrew had a wide-ranging career in the rail industry, including roles as Managing Director of South West Trains and Managing Director of the Rail Division for First Group plc.
Their new positions will take effect on 2 February 2026.
Commenting, Stephen Morgan, MP for Portsmouth South, said:
“This city deserves a transport system that works and works for them. For too long, Portsmouth people have tolerated service issues and costly ticket pricing.
“Since coming into office, this Government has been getting on with fixing the issues with Britain’s transport systems following 14 years of neglect under the Conservatives.
“The Department for Transport’s newly announced appointments are an example of the major steps being taken ahead of the launch of Great British Railways, ensuring we deliver the improved services and passenger experiences Portsmouth people have been waiting for.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:
“With legislation now making its way through Parliament, we’re making good progress with our ambitious programme of rail reform.
“When Great British Railways is established, it will help us to deliver a network which is run for the public, owned by the public.
“Richard and Sir Andrew both bring a wealth of experience, helping to improve passenger experience and operational performance, supporting the integration of our railways and building o four railways and building towards the world-class railway we will see under Great British Railways.”
