Graduates leave university loaded with enthusiasm, novel ideas, and the latest technical insight — all of which are vital for moving the rail sector forward. The Graduate of the Year Award recognises outstanding recent graduates who are already making significant contributions to the rail industry. Our judges look for individuals who embody passion, creativity, and […]
Category: People
Honouring our HR heroes
Deborah Birch, head of HR at Hull Trains, picked up the coveted HR and Recruitment Person Award at this year’s RailStaff Awards. The Award recognises the individuals and teams who have demonstrated exceptional achievements and excellence in the strategic management of human resources and who have explored innovative approaches in attracting, selecting, and nurturing top […]
Celebrating rail’s brightest new talent
Apprenticeships provide a valuable route into the rail industry, giving people from all backgrounds the chance to develop the skills and experience needed for a rewarding career. At the same time, apprentices play a vital role for employers, bringing fresh perspectives, enthusiasm, and much-needed support as experienced staff move on. The Apprentice of the Year […]
Resonate Group appoints Carmen Hula as chief finance officer
Digital railway specialist Resonate Group has appointed Carmen Hula as it chief finance officer, bringing extensive experience in to support the company’s next phase of sustainable growth and innovation in digital rail technology. In her new role, Carmen will oversee Resonates financial strategy and operations, driving efficiencies, and supporting strategic investment as the business continues […]
RailStaff Awards 2025: honouring the industry’s everyday heroes
Representatives from across the rail industry celebrated last night (Thursday 27 November) at the RailStaff Awards 2025. Held at Birmingham’s NEC, the event shines a spotlight on the people whose dedication keeps the railway running. Rail managers, customer service assistants, apprentices, training managers and many more were there, reflecting the industry’s wide range of skills […]
Alex Hynes named as new CEO of DfT Operator
Alex Hynes has been appointed as the new chief executive of Department for Transport Operator Limited (DFTO) to lead the next phase in the transition to Great British Railways. With significant experience in both the rail industry and Department for Transport, his appointment will support the Government’s mission to bring together track and train – […]
Sharif Narouz named as major programme director at WSP
Engineering and professional services firm WSP has announced the appointment of Sharif Narouz as major programme director for the UK and Ireland. Sharif brings extensive experience from senior client roles at AWE, Crossrail and TfL, most recently leading a +£5 billion programme in the Defence Nuclear sector. He is an accredited NISTA Tier 1 Project […]
TPE driver honoured for life-saving intervention at Redcar station
A TransPennine Express (TPE) driver has been praised for his quick thinking and bravery after assisting a person in need at Redcar station in 2024. Simon Kirk, a driver based at York, has been awarded a British Transport Police (BTP) Divisional Commander’s Commendation at a ceremony in Birmingham for recognition of his actions. While arriving […]
Metro worker retires after 40 years repairing ticket machines
A long-serving Metro worker is set to retire after 40 years repairing ticket machines on the system. Alex Carr has headed up the maintenance of the 225 ticket machines across The Tyne and Wear Metro’s 60 stations for the last four decades. Alex, 60, of Dipton in County Durham, manages the Nexus Automatic Fare Collection […]
RFG appoints Ralph Goldney to Board and confirms re-appointment of Richard Hastings
Rail Freight Group (RFG) has appointed Ralph Goldney to its Board and confirmed the re-appointment of Richard Hastings, further strengthening its breadth of expertise and industry insight. Ralph Goldney of Railfreight Consulting was formally elected to the Board for the first time at RFG’s Annual General Meeting yesterday, 12 November 2025, held at Northampton Gateway […]