Press releases

Arriva plc, one of Europe’s largest transport services organisations, has today announced senior appointments within its UK Trains division, naming managing directors for its CrossCountry and Arriva Trains Wales franchises.

Andy Cooper has been confirmed as managing director CrossCountry, a role he has held on an interim basis since 1 October.  Andy has extensive industry experience previously holding managing director roles at Anglia Railways and Central Trains.  As interim MD and previously director of CrossCountry bid and mobilisation teams, he has an exceptional understanding of the new franchise.

Tim Bell has been named as managing director for Arriva Trains Wales.  With a wide ranging career across the rail industry, Tim is currently operations and safety director at ATW.

The two new MDs will both report to Bob Holland, Arriva’s managing director – UK Trains.

Announcing the appointments, Bob Holland said: “We’re pleased to make these two appointments of strong leaders with a depth of management experience across the rail industry.  Andy and Tim will help ensure continuity in the respective businesses, maintaining focus on further improvements in operational performance and customer service in Wales and delivering the CrossCountry franchise commitments on time and within budget.

“Tim is a key member of the senior team at Arriva Trains Wales which has seen operational performance rise to record levels for the Wales and Borders franchise.  His appointment will help build on that record and maintain continuity and strong relationships with stakeholders including the Welsh Assembly Government.

“Andy has been at the heart of Arriva’s success in winning the CrossCountry franchise.  He led the bid team and successful mobilisation in the run up to the CrossCountry launch ensuring a smooth start to CrossCountry operations and is set to build on our strong start to take the business forward.”