HS2 will see new leadership next year, tasked with delivering the line as cost-effectively as possible for passengers and taxpayers.
- HS2 Ltd Chair, Sir Jon Thompson, to step down in spring
- search for a new Chair will begin soon, ensuring consistent leadership throughout the next stage of the project
- HS2 will be delivered cost effectively between Euston and Birmingham to benefit passengers and taxpayers
The Chair of HS2 Ltd, Sir Jon Thompson, has announced he will step down from his position in spring after almost 4 years on the Board.
Sir Jon joined the Board of HS2 Ltd as a Non-Executive Director in April 2021 and was appointed Chair of Britain's largest rail project in February 2023, following a competitive recruitment process.
Recently, as Executive Chair, he also provided continuity at a pivotal time for the project while the new Chief Executive, Mark Wild, was recruited.
The recruitment of a new Chair will commence shortly to identify a successor who will lead HS2 Ltd through the next phase of the HS2 project.
Sir Jon's successor will work with Mark Wild, one of the most respected figures in the infrastructure industry, who joined the organisation at the start of the month to oversee the completion of the high-speed railway.
Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said:
I want to thank Sir Jon for his work over nearly 4 years to progress Britain's largest rail project.
He has provided strong leadership during challenging times for the project, and we are grateful for his service.
With the appointment of a new CEO and an incoming new Chair, HS2 will see new leadership next year, tasked with gripping budgets and schedules and delivering the line as cost-effectively as possible for passengers and taxpayers.
Today's announcement comes after the government gave the project much-needed certainty by confirming HS2 will be delivered between Birmingham and Euston while pledging to grip budgets and bring the project back on track to deliver it cost-effectively for passengers and taxpayers.
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