TfL has appointed Andy Byford as the Capital’s new transport commissioner, in what is being described as a ‘pivotal moment’ for the organisation.
Mr Byford’s most recent role was president and chief executive officer of New York City Transit Authority – where he was responsible for 50,000 staff and devised a $40bn five-year investment plan to renew the city’s transport system.
Closer to home, earlier in his career Mr Byford spent more than a decade working for London Underground – and has also had director roles at both Southern Railway and South Eastern Trains Limited.
Mr Byford will join TfL on 29 June, with the current commissioner, Mike Brown MVO, staying on until 10 July to assist with the handover process.
TfL says Mr Byford takes up the post at a pivotal moment for the organisation, as it works to help the Capital recover from the Covid-19 pandemic and support a safe and sustainable re-start.
Sadiq Khan, mayor of London, said: “I’m delighted to confirm Andy Byford as London’s new transport commissioner.
“Covid-19 has had a profound impact on public transport in London but Andy brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise to lead TfL as it faces this unprecedented challenge.
“I look forward to working with Andy as we build a greener city with clean and environmentally-friendly travel, including walking and cycling, at the heart of its recovery.
“I would like to place on record my gratitude to Mike Brown for everything he has done for the Capital since starting at TfL in 1989. I wish him the best of luck in his new role.”
Andy Byford said: “I am delighted to be taking up the role of Commissioner and to have been chosen to lead the organisation where I started my transport career over 30 years ago.
“In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, all transport authorities around the world will need to reimagine how their services and projects contribute to the safe and sustainable re-start of the social and economic lives of the cities they serve.
“It is a huge challenge, but I know that TfL has some of the best people anywhere in the world and we will meet these challenges and will together help build an even better city for everyone.”
01 June 2020