HS2 Ltd has appointed a new chief programme officer as part of the comprehensive reset of the project.
Neil Holm will take on the role which is focused on completing the remainder of HS2’s construction and preparing for the introduction of passenger services.
Neil brings more than two decades of experience in successful, complex programme delivery across defence and rail infrastructure. He joins HS2 Ltd from BAE Systems where he has most recently been in the role of chief operating officer overseeing the transformation of the ship building business.
His previous experience includes managing director of the multi-billion-pound Transpennine Route Upgrade, where he led the project to successful approval and oversaw the mobilisation of work to begin the railway upgrade between York and Manchester
He will join the HS2 Ltd executive team, bringing a fresh outlook and perspective during a pivotal time for the HS2 project.
HS2 Ltd Chief Executive Mark Wild said: “Neil joins HS2 Ltd as we move towards the end of our work to reset the programme, setting us up to deliver Britain’s new high-speed railway between London and the West Midlands.
“His track record of successful project delivery gives me confidence that he will play a pivotal role as we continue with our mission to open the new railway by 2037 at the lowest reasonable cost.”
Neil commented: “I am hugely excited to be joining HS2 at this pivotal time.
“This is one of the most important infrastructure projects in the UK’s history, and it is a real honour to be part of its transformation and delivery.
“I look forward to applying my experience in major infrastructure and defence to steer the project to a safe and successful completion.”
Image credit: HS2
