Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), the UK’s largest rail franchise, has appointed Nick Brown (pictured) as its new Chief Operating Officer.

Mr Brown, age 56, will join GTR in November to replace Dyan Crowther who is leaving after two years with the train operator to become the new CEO of HS1 Ltd (High Speed 1). He will join the Board of GTR Ltd and be a member of the GTR Executive Team, reporting to Charles Horton, CEO of GTR.

Mr Brown is a highly experienced transport professional with more than 35 years’ experience in the industry. He has a strong operational and commercial background in the public and private sectors and has led businesses in rail and bus, both in the UK and internationally. He was until recently Managing Director, London Underground and Rail for Transport for London.

Commenting, Charles Horton, Chief Executive of GTR, said:

"We're delighted that Nick is joining GTR. He has a first class pedigree in the transport industry, a wealth of experience and a strong track record of leading businesses in the rail and bus sectors. Nick's broad experience and intimate knowledge of the sector makes him ideally placed to help us achieve our business goals and deliver a better railway and excellent service for our customers going forward. I'm looking forward to him coming on board and I know he'll add real value to the business."

“Dyan carries with her into her new venture with HS1 my warmest congratulations and grateful thanks for her significant contribution to GTR over these past two years.”