Sir Jonathan Thompson has been named new HS2 Ltd Chair after stepping into deputy role in March 2022.

In his role, Sir Jonathan is to provide strategic leadership, oversight and accountability for the HS2 programme which has said it will aim to be delivered on time and in budget.

Sir Jonathan brings decades of experience delivering major projects and leadership having previously served as the Permanent Secretary at both the Ministry of Defence and HM Revenue and Customs.

In addition to this, Elaine Holt has been appointed as Deputy Chair of the HS2 Ltd board. Elaine is an existing non-executive director and an expert in both transport and the service industries. She will support the Chair in leading the board.

Mark Harper, Transport Secretary said:

"HS2 goes far beyond simply making journeys quicker. It is a world-leading project that is already having a huge impact by regenerating communities and creating tens of thousands of jobs across the country.

"I am delighted to appoint Sir Jonathan as Chair, and with his breadth of experience I have no doubt he will be successful in delivering our shared goals of increasing capacity on our rail network, levelling up our country and driving economic growth for generations to come."

Sir Jonathan Thompson, Chair HS2 Ltd said:

"I am delighted to have been appointed as HS2 Chair. During my time on the board, this monumental project has already achieved some incredible milestones and I’ve seen first-hand how it will transform not only journeys but the lives of people across the country."