UK: FirstGroup has announced the appointment of Martijn Gilbert to the new role of Managing Director of its two open access operators Lumo and Hull Trains.
Gilbert has been Managing Director of Go-Ahead Group bus operator Go North East since August 2018. He was CEO of Reading Buses in 2014-18, and previously held roles at Arriva’s bus and rail divisions.
He will join First Rail on September 12.
David Gibson has been Managing Director of Hull Trains since October 2021 and is to leave the business in September to move to a role outside the rail industry. Phil Cameron will continue as interim Managing Director of Lumo through a handover period before returning to his role as Commercial Projects Director at First Rail.
Announcing Gilbert’s appointment on June 7, Andy Mellors, First Rail Managing Director for Non-Franchised Businesses, said ‘Martijn is passionate about delivering excellent customer experience in the transport sector and his expertise will be vital as we continue to grow our businesses. We are all looking forward to having him on the team. I would like to thank David for his leadership as we re-establish Hull Trains following the pandemic period, and also thank Phil for his continued dedication and support during the successful expansion of Lumo services.’
Gilbert said ‘it’s an honour and a privilege to be asked to lead both the established and well respected Hull Trains and the innovative new Lumo operation. I am confident that, working closely with our partners, we can realise the ambitious plans for the future and deliver great service for our customers.’
