The Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) today announces an important leadership transition. Jim Meade will step down as Chair of the Board in October 2025 after guiding the Institution through a period of change and innovation. He will be succeeded by Mark Hopwood CBE, Managing Director of Great Western Railway, who will take on the role of Chair. This transition ensures continued strong leadership as CIRO supports members and partners across the railway industry.
Guiding CIRO Through a Period of Transition
Jim Meade has served as Chair during a pivotal period in CIRO’s development. Beginning his career as an apprentice fitter in 1979, he rose through operational leadership roles to become Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann in 2018. Over more than four decades in the industry, he has overseen major programmes of investment, modernisation, and performance improvement, always with a focus on professionalism and safety.
At CIRO, Jim Meade brought the same operational focus and long-term vision. Under his leadership, the Institution has grown its membership, launched new learning pathways such as CIRO Connect and the Integrated Railway Operations Leadership Scheme, celebrated its 2,000th Train Driver End-Point Assessment, expanded Ofqual recognition, and strengthened its position as the professional standards body for railway operations. He also supported work on a refreshed mission and values for CIRO, providing greater clarity of purpose and laying the groundwork for the organisation’s future.
Jim reflected:
“This has been a period of change but also of momentum for CIRO. With new programmes, stronger collaboration, and a renewed sense of purpose, the Institution has built solid foundations for the future. It has been a privilege to serve as Chair and to see CIRO grow in confidence and influence. I am proud of what has been achieved, and I know the organisation is well placed for the next stage of its journey.”
Welcoming Mark Hopwood CBE
Mark Hopwood CBE, who will take up the role of Chair, brings more than 30 years of experience in rail leadership. As Managing Director of Great Western Railway, he has overseen one of the UK’s largest train operating companies, leading a complex programme of modernisation including fleet renewal, timetable transformation, and customer service improvements. Mark has also held senior leadership roles across the FirstGroup portfolio, including interim Managing Director of South Western Railway, and has built a strong reputation for collaboration, operational delivery, and customer focus. His contribution to the industry was recognised with a CBE in the 2020 New Year Honours.
On taking the new role, Mark Hopwood said:
“I’m honoured to be appointed Chair of CIRO at such a pivotal moment for our industry. This new era for rail is an exciting one that will demand fresh thinking, sharper skills and closer collaboration to realise its full potential. The Institution has already redefined its mission and values, and is now laying the foundations for a more visible, collaborative and influential role across the sector.
“My priority will be to build on this strong platform to put people at the heart of that journey – ensuring CIRO not only supports but actively accelerates the development of rail professionals. By inspiring the next generation and strengthening the expertise of today’s leaders, I want CIRO to be the first choice for anyone who sees their future in railway operations, and a driving force in shaping the railway of tomorrow.”
Strength for the Future
CIRO enters this new chapter with continuity of purpose and renewed ambition. With Jim Meade’s legacy of operational rigour and Mark Hopwood’s forward-looking leadership, the Institution is well placed to grow in visibility and influence, expand opportunities for members, and equip rail professionals to shape the railway of tomorrow.
CIRO CEO Phil Sherratt said:
“Our thanks go to Jim for his dedication and service to CIRO during his six-year tenure as a Governor, and in particular for his support and leadership during his time as Chair. Jim’s wisdom and guidance has been invaluable during a time of change and transition, and I offer my personal thanks to him for his help.
“I am thrilled that Mark has agreed to succeed Jim as Chair. Mark’s extensive operational experience and his leadership will be invaluable to CIRO during a period of significant change in the rail industry. I am looking forward to working with Mark and the Board as we continue to deliver on our mission to lead, inspire and accelerate the growth of rail professionals.”
