Transport for the North (TfN) has today confirmed changes to its executive leadership team as the organisation continues to evolve and change.
After nearly five years leading TfN, Martin Tugwell will be stepping away from his role as CEO to take a career break. Deputy CEO, Katie Day, will become Chief Executive (interim), effective from 1 June.
This leadership transition comes at an important moment for TfN as the organisation continues to reset and renew its offer amid a rapidly changing landscape across the North.
Over the coming weeks, Martin and Katie will work closely together to support a smooth transition of responsibilities.
Martin Tugwell said: “After careful consideration, I believe now is the right time for me to step away as CEO of Transport for the North. It’s been a privilege to serve the North, its political leaders and to work with some of the most skilled and talented professionals involved in strategic transport planning.
“I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together. TfN has a reputation for technical leadership and excellence that is richly deserved. It plays a vital role in supporting its constituent authorities and national government to make the case for investment in the North’s transport system.
“As TfN looks to the future, its role must continue to evolve in response to the devolution agenda. Now is the right time for me to step back and enable a new leadership to work with our constituent authorities to shape a new TfN. I would like to thank the TfN Board for their support over the past five years – their collective leadership on behalf of the North remains just as important now as when I joined – and I wish Katie all the best as she leads Team TfN over the next few months. She brings deep experience, strong leadership and a clear commitment to its future direction.”
Katie Day added: “As the region evolves, so too must the organisations that serve it. TfN is focused on serving our members and delivering the data, insight and technical capability needed to develop stronger investment cases and help deliver on their ambitions.
“TfN plays a vital role in bringing the North together around its shared strategic transport ambitions and I’m grateful for the Board’s support as interim Chief Executive during this critical period of change.
“Collaboration is central to TfN’s future and I’m committed to strengthening the partnerships that sit at the heart of our work. I’m working closely with our Board, the North’s 11 combined authorities and the Department for Transport to shape the future of TfN and ensure we are aligned on delivering the shared transport ambitions for the North which will unlock economic growth. I want to wish Martin all the best for the future and I look forward to guiding the organisation into its next phase.”