Changes to Avanti West Coast leadership team
Statement about changes to Avanti West Coast leadership team
Phil Whittingham, Managing Director of Avanti West Coast has decided to step down from his role with effect from 15 September in order to pursue other executive leadership opportunities.
Phil transferred to Avanti West Coast, as Managing Director, from Virgin West Coast Trains Limited following the rail franchise change process following a successful 23 years in various roles on the railway.
Steve Montgomery, First Rail Managing Director, said: “Having led the team through the challenges presented by the pandemic over the last two years and into the recovery period, Phil leaves with the team ready for the challenges in delivering the future service requirements. I would like to thank Phil and wish him well in the future.”
For the immediate future, Steve Montgomery will provide executive leadership support to the Avanti West Coast team.
Contact Information
Notes to editors
About Avanti West Coast
Avanti West Coast, operator of intercity rail services on the West Coast Main Line, is a joint venture between FirstGroup and Trenitalia, delivering a cleaner, greener railway that drives the West Coast forward.
We’re on a mission to revolutionise train travel, linking together the towns and major cities of the UK to create an iconic railway the country can be proud of. We’ve got big plans including a fleet of new intercity trains, as well as the complete refurbishment of the existing Pendolino train fleet. We will introduce more train services every week with new routes added, and a much-improved onboard service with enhanced free Wi-Fi, plug sockets, 25,000 brand new seats and improved catering. Since 8 December 2019, passengers have benefitted from improved passenger compensation, available for journeys delayed by just 15 minutes.
For the latest news, visit the Avanti West Coast Media Room: https://newsdesk.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/
Press Office: 0845 000 3333