North East boss behind London travel improvements joins Transport for the North

A North East transport boss responsible for supporting the transformation of London’s travel network is returning to the North to strengthen connectivity across the region.

David Hughes is joining Transport for the North as director of strategy and programme.

David, who grew up in Sunderland, will co-ordinate investment across the North, drawing upon 15 years of experience with Transport for London that includes planning a multi-billion capital investment programme.

In his new role, he will oversee the Northern Infrastructure Pipeline – a list of road and rail schemes advocated by the North’s leaders that includes major projects such as Northern Powerhouse Rail.

David, who has also worked for the UK Ministry of Defence, Deloitte and the BBC, said: “Heading home to the North, I can’t think of another role that I’d relish more right now.

“The North’s leaders have made clear their joint ambition for more investment in the transport network and a greater say over how that is delivered.

“The North is in a commanding position to shape its own future, one that propels the economy and delivers more opportunities for communities.

“I’m looking forward to playing my part in making that vision a reality.”

Barry White, Transport for the North chief executive, said the organisation was delighted to have attracted someone of David’s calibre, citing his previous experience across top-level posts on London Underground and the capital’s new Crossrail development.

“There’s never been a time when the future of transport and investment in the North of England has been as high on the national agenda,” said Barry.

“It’s a perfect time for someone with David’s experience to join us.

“He has forged successful partnerships right across the capital, leading the delivery of multi-billion investment programmes and co-ordinating major projects such as Crossrail.

“He’s been instrumental in driving a step-change in London’s transport network – a change that we too want to see for the passengers of the North. His knowledge and experience will be critical in making a commanding case to Government to level-up our economy.”

David will take up his new role in February 2020.