The Railway Industry Association (RIA), which champions a dynamic UK rail supply sector, has announced changes to its RIA Wales & Western Leadership Group.
The group represents members across Wales and the South West and West of England. With projects such as Cardiff Crossrail, Network North Wales, and plans for the Bristol area central to the region's economic future alongside a Metro Mayor in Bristol, a devolved nation in Wales, and several sub-national transport bodies, RIA Wales & Western said it provides a united voice for suppliers to advocate for the benefits delivered by rail including improved connectivity, growth, and sustainability for communities.
Phil Harrison, Director and UKIMEA Rail Business Leader at Arup, will be stepping down from his role as Chair as planned after a two-year tenure, and Paul Whitcombe, previously Senior Business Manager at Frazer Nash Consulting, will also be stepping down from his role as Vice Chair having also completed two years.
Karl Hatala, Regional Director for Western and Wales at AECOM, is the new Chair, and Nicole Ireland, Business Development Manager at Telent, is the new Vice Chair.
Karl Hatala said:
“I'm delighted to become Chair of RIA Wales & Western, and would like to thank Phil Harrison who has done an excellent job leading the group over the last couple of years. I'm really looking forward to building on that strong foundation, working closely with stakeholders across the region, and supporting the wider supply chain. The rail industry in Wales & Western has a huge level of opportunity ahead, and I'm passionate about ensuring suppliers have a strong and effective voice as we continue to collaborate across the sector and build in readiness for what GBR will look like. I'm excited to engage with members, build and strengthen relationships across the industry, and help champion the role of the supply chain in delivering a successful, sustainable railway for the future.”
Incoming Vice Chair Nicole Ireland said:
“I am really proud to be voted in as Vice Chair of the RIA Wales & Western Leadership Group. Building on the great work Phil and Paul have done, I'm keen to ensure that RIA members are well represented, well connected and actively engaged in shaping the regional agenda. I look forward to working with RIA, Network Rail, TfW and the wider stakeholders, along with the Leadership Group to continue to deliver tangible value for its members.”
