On 25th March 2025, leading figures from the rail industry gathered at the Edwardian Hotel Manchester for the inaugural Rail Industry Planning Awards (Golden Planners) – a prestigious event celebrating excellence in train planning and operational innovation. The ceremony brought together railway professionals and key industry figures to recognise outstanding contributions to train planning and operational excellence.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award to Andrew Pennington, in recognition of his transformative impact on train planning and railway operations. Currently serving as an Operations and Planning Projects Specialist supporting The Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) and Avanti West Coast, Andrew has been a pioneering figure in the rail industry throughout his career.
The award was presented by Mark Hopwood CBE, Managing Director of Great Western Railway and CIRO Board Member, who praised Andrew’s immense contributions to train planning and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of railway professionals, remarking:
“It was a great honour to be invited to speak at the conference, as well as being asked to present this special Lifetime Achievement Award to Andrew Pennington. Andrew has been recognised for decades of commitment not only to the train planning discipline but also for his significant role in developing train planners over many years – a richly deserved accolade!”
A Career Dedicated to Excellence
Andrew’s distinguished career spans more than three decades, during which time he has held key leadership roles in train planning, operational strategy, and industry-wide programme development. Since July 2024, he has served as an Operations and Planning Projects Specialist at CIRO and Avanti West Coast, where he has played a pivotal role in advancing collaborative industry training initiatives and enhancing train planning capabilities.
In his current role, Andrew is heavily involved in the development of CIRO’s industry-wide training programmes, ensuring they align with evolving operational challenges and workforce needs. His technical expertise, combined with a deep-rooted knowledge and understanding of the real-world challenges facing rail operatives, has proved crucial in developing effective programmes designed to meet the needs of today’s rail industry.
A Legacy of Leadership in Train Planning
Before joining CIRO, Andrew spent nine years as Head of Planning at South Western Railway Alliance (2015–2024), where he directed all train and access planning activities for the Alliance between South West Trains and Network Rail. His leadership was instrumental in optimising timetable development, infrastructure access, and resource utilisation to balance capacity, performance, revenue, and efficiency.
Prior to this, he held various senior roles, including:
- Head of Operations Strategy & Interface, South West Trains (2014–2015)
- Head of Train Planning, First Great Western (2008–2013)
- Train Service Planning Manager, London Lines (2001–2007)
- Train Service Planning Manager, Silverlink Train Services (1999–2001)
- Resources Manager, South Eastern (1993–1999)
- Services and Resources Manager, Merseyrail (1991–1993
Beyond operational planning, Andrew has made a lasting impact on the industry through his commitment to mentoring and professional development. His guidance has shaped the careers of many train planners, ensuring that future generations are equipped to meet the challenges of an evolving rail network.
Recognising Excellence in Railway Operations
Phil Sherratt, CEO of CIRO, was also present at the event and played a key role in the awards ceremony, presenting the Practitioner of the Year Award. CIRO’s support for these awards reflects its commitment to recognising and encouraging excellence not only in train planning but across all aspects of rail operations. By celebrating the achievements of industry professionals, CIRO continues to uphold its mission: to lead, inspire and accelerate the growth of rail professionals, cultivating collaboration to support the success of rail organisations now and in the future.
Andrew Pennington’s recognition at the Golden Planners is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication, expertise, and influence within the railway industry. As he continues his work with CIRO and Avanti West Coast, his leadership will undoubtedly help shape the next generation of railway professionals, ensuring a lasting legacy of innovation and excellence.
