Sir Andrew Haines, the Chief Executive of Network Rail, has announced his intention to retire from the company in October 2025, after seven years at the helm.
Having joined Network Rail in August 2018, Sir Andrew has been credited with a relentless drive to prioritise passengers, aiming to transform the organisation into a more customer-focused entity and enhance overall performance. His tenure saw him navigate the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, ensuring the continued operation of rail services for key workers and essential goods transportation.
Following the government’s “Plan for Rail” in 2021, Sir Andrew was instrumental in establishing the interim framework for the creation of Great British Railways (GBR), a key government initiative aimed at integrating track and train operations. He has been a leading figure in the ongoing efforts to establish a unified railway system with passengers at its core.
Speaking on behalf of the Board, Network Rail’s Acting Chair Mike Putnam said: “Andrew has been an exceptional leader for Network Rail at a critical time in the history of Britain’s railways. He has secured reforms that will lead to a more reliable railway, while maintaining a continual focus on safety and performance.
“His vision, leadership and ambition for an integrated, simpler railway that will deliver a significantly better experience for passengers has been at the heart of the creation of Great British Railways.
“I’d like to thank Andrew for his unwavering dedication and leadership of Network Rail over the last seven years.”
Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, said: “I’d like to thank Andrew for the commitment and leadership he’s shown over the past seven years. He provided stability during the most challenging of periods and ensured the railway kept running throughout the pandemic and through national industrial action.
“His vision and support has been vital as we establish Great British Railways – one of this government’s biggest reforms. His work has been a key part of our efforts to deliver a simpler, more efficient railway, with passengers at its heart.”
Sir Andrew Haines commented: “It has been a privilege to lead Network Rail through a time of such change and transformation for Britain’s railways, and I am proud of the progress that we have made on performance, safety, reliability and customer service.
“After seven years as Chief Executive, as Great British Railways starts to progress through legislation and into implementation, I have decided it is the right time for me to retire.
“I am a passionate supporter of the principles behind Great British Railways and the once-in-a-generation opportunity it presents to create an integrated railway that delivers a better service and experience for passengers, stakeholders and colleagues. It has been a privilege to lead this transformational journey to date.”
The search for Sir Andrew’s successor will commence in due course, ensuring a smooth transition as Network Rail continues its work towards the realisation of Great British Railways.
