The Chartered Institution of Railway Operators Welcomes New Appointments to its Board of Governors | Chartered Institution of Railway Operators

“To lead, inspire and accelerate the growth of rail professionals, cultivating collaboration to support the success of rail organisations,
now and in the future.”

The Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) is delighted to announce the appointment of Jason Wade FCIRO, Regional Director for Northern, and Chris Jackson, Managing Director of TransPennine Express, to its Board of Governors. Both bring a wealth of expertise and insight that will enhance CIRO’s leadership and its commitment to supporting railway professionals.

Jason Wade has had a distinguished career in railway operations, with extensive experience across the industry. Currently serving as Regional Director for the Northeast at Northern, Jason is responsible for overseeing rail services across the region, where he has played a pivotal role in driving improvements to service performance, passenger experience, and operational excellence. Jason also demonstrated his commitment to CIRO’s mission during his time as Chair of the Northeast Area Council, a role in which he actively championed professional development and engagement within the rail industry. His expertise in regional rail services will be instrumental in helping CIRO drive forward its mission to support railway operators across the UK.

Chris Jackson, as Managing Director of TransPennine Express, leads the operation of vital intercity and regional rail services across the North of England and Scotland. With over 20 years of experience in the rail industry, Chris has a proven track record in operational and customer-focused roles in TOCs, Light Rail, Network Rail and Freight. Since joining TransPennine Express in 2023, he has demonstrated strong leadership and a commitment to delivering enhanced passenger services. His strategic vision aligns closely with CIRO’s goals to elevate professionalism and effectiveness within railway operations.

These appointments follow CIRO’s recent additions to its Board of Governors through its first-ever election process in October 2024. Three new members – Karen Duffy FCIRO, Rachel Heath FCIRO, and David Davidson FCIRO – were elected and joined alongside three other new board members, who were selected – Mark Hopwood CBE FCIRO, Nick Dent ACIRO, and Tom Desmond MCIRO. Together, this expanded Board brings a broad range of expertise to CIRO’s governance as it approaches its 25th anniversary.

CIRO also takes this opportunity to express its heartfelt thanks to Ellie Burrows FCIRO and Tom Joyner ACIRO for their service and contributions to the Board of Governors. Both have been instrumental in shaping CIRO’s strategic direction during their tenure, and their dedication has had a lasting impact on the institution.

Commenting on the appointments, Phil Sherratt, CIRO’s CEO, said:

“We are excited to have two strong advocates of CIRO joining the Board. Chris and Jason bring a wealth of operating knowledge and experience, and I look forward to working with them as CIRO celebrates its 25th anniversary year and embarks on the next stage of its development.

I also want to extend my gratitude to Ellie and Tom for their significant contributions to CIRO. They have been passionate advocates for our mission, and we wish them every success in their future endeavours.”

As CIRO marks its 25th anniversary, the expanded Board of Governors is poised to guide the organisation through its next phase of growth and innovation.