(21/10/2015 19:05)wirralbus Wrote:  Merseytravel chief executive, David Brown, has been appointed chief executive of Transport for the North (TfN).

The role, a new position, will see David taking a lead role in the development of the future blueprint for TfN as it builds towards statutory status from 2017 onwards – driving forward transformational changes to transport across the north to grow and strengthen the economy.

David will leave Merseytravel to take up position at TfN in the next few weeks.

Said Merseytravel chair, Cllr Liam Robinson:

"During his two years or so at Merseytravel David has worked with City Region leaders and partners to help push our transport and economic ambitions to the fore and I know he will continue to support the Liverpool City Region in striving to fulfil its potential as part of the 'Northern Powerhouse'.

"David's new role is not only a reflection of his skill and expertise and the high regard with which he is held within the transport industry, but also as recognition of the strengths, achievements and tenacity of the Liverpool City Region in pushing for the best possible transport offer for people, business and economic growth.

"Amongst his many achievements David helped advise in the creation of the Combined Authority, led the development of a long term rail strategy, established the Linking Liverpool Campaign on behalf of the City Region, and has overseen all we have achieved in making Young People’s ticketing more affordable.

"Merseytravel will keep up the momentum David helped create, continuing to support the Liverpool City Region get the best deal on transport, from delivering the long term rail strategy, transforming the bus experience for customers and taking forward plans for new Merseyrail trains – just a few projects amongst many."

Merseytravel's current deputy chief executive, Frank Rogers, will become acting chief executive in the interim. He held this role in the months prior to David's appointment in May 2013.