Remodelling management: how the ‘big five’ shaped up

As New Transit publishes its annual Power 50 list of key movers and shakers in public transport, James Dark considers how management structures have evolved in the UK’s major passenger transport groups - and where the new responsibilities lie

James Dark

03 February 2011

Brian Souter (left) and Martin Griffiths celebrating the Stagecoach 30th anniversary in London last year

Tim OToole (centre) has replaced Sir Moir Lockhead (right) as the FirstGroup chief executive

Ten, even five years ago, pursuing a transport story was relatively straightforward for journalists.

It was simply a matter of picking up the phone and grilling the big names. Even transport group main board directors could often be reached on a casual whim and generally relied upon to give a view across the business. Times have changed. Throughout the vast majority of the industry, there is now a process to be followed, with requests made through PR officers, and appointments scheduled....