Dave Hooper Appointed New Managing Director of Network Rail Southern

Network Rail today announced the appointment of Dave Hooper as the new Managing Director for its Southern region. Hooper will assume his new role on 1 May, succeeding Ellie Burrows, who will transition to the position of Managing Director for the Eastern region.

Hooper brings a wealth of experience to the role, having held senior positions across the rail sector. He joins Network Rail from Siemens Mobility, where he currently serves as Director of Major Programmes. His previous roles include leadership positions at Osborne, Transport for London, Serco Rail, and two train operating companies. Notably, Hooper previously worked for Network Rail, contributing to early track-train integration efforts in partnership with South West Trains.

Sir Andrew Haines, Chief Executive of Network Rail, expressed his enthusiasm for Hooper's appointment, stating, "I’m extremely pleased that Dave will be joining our team. He brings exceptionally broad rail experience at an exciting time for the sector." Haines emphasized Hooper's valuable experience in train operations and the supply chain, which will be crucial as the industry moves towards greater integration.

Hooper added: "I’m exhilarated to be joining the Network Rail Executive Leadership team at such an exciting time for the UK’s railway. I look forward to working together as one team, with the teams across Network Rail and with our wider industry partners, to improve the service offering for our passengers and freight customers.”

Hooper’s appointment comes after previous changes to its executive leadership team late last year. As well as Burrows moving to the Eastern Region, Jake Kelly will move to become managing director of North West & Central region, succeeding Rob McIntosh. McIntosh is taking up a new role at Transpennine Upgrade.