A new managing director has been appointed for South Western Railway.
Claire Mann, a former director of the DLR who has held positions at TfL and London Overground, among others, will take up her role in early 2021.
Ms Mann said: “I’m really looking forward to joining the SWR team.
“This is a railway close to my heart and one that is vital for connecting so many diverse communities.
“I am passionate about delivering an excellent customer experience and building on the great work already underway to transform this railway.
“People are the most important part of any successful operation and I am looking forward to meeting the teams and individuals across the SWR network.”
Steve Montgomery, First Rail managing director, said: “With her experienced background in customer service and public transport, Claire is well-placed to lead South Western Railway as we continue our £1.2bn programme to transform the travelling experience for our customers. We are all looking forward to having her on the team.
“Although passenger numbers may be suppressed at the moment, people will want to travel again for work or leisure, and we are ready to play our part in helping the economic recovery across the network.
“I’d like to thank Mark Hopwood performing this important interim role over the past year and for his commitment to improving services for customers at SWR.”