Hughes on board as TfN builds leadership team

David Hughes, a senior transport industry figure, is to join Transport for the North as director of strategy and programme in February 2020.

Hughes has spent the last 15 years in senior roles at Transport for London, most recently as investment delivery planning director, in which position he planned all aspects of TfL’s multi-billion capital investment programme.

In his new role – which is currently filled on an interim basis – Hughes will have oversight of the delivery of some of the North’s most high-profile projects, leading on the Northern Infrastructure Pipeline, a list of road and rail schemes advocated by the North’s leaders including major projects such as Northern Powerhouse Rail.

Barry White, TfN chief executive, said: “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 – a perfect time for someone with David’s experience to join us.

“David 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.”

Before his time at TfL, Hughes worked at the Ministry of Defence, Deloitte and the BBC. TfL roles included director of strategy and network development for the London Underground and chief of staff of surface transport, as well as leading the client team for Crossrail.

He said: “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.”