Phil Hewitt has been appointed as the new Chair of Midland Metro Limited (MML), the operator of the ever expanding West Midlands Metro network. Mr Hewitt has over 30 years experience in senior roles across the light rail sector and has previously served as Metro Director at Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) before the launch of services to Library in 2019.
Speaking about his appointment Mr Hewitt said: “I’m delighted to be taking on this role at such an exciting time for the region’s tram system, with the construction of two new lines already well underway. The undoubted popularity of the tram amongst the travelling public is down to the hard work and dedication of the MML team, and I’m relishing the opportunity of working once more with the other board members and the new Managing Director as she implements her plans to ensure the organisation is ready for the future.
“By following the principles of ‘plan, do, review’, I’m confident that together we can drive the Metro’s popularity to new heights as we deliver the expansion of Metro services that will contribute to WMCA’s plans to transform mobility across the region.”
Phil Hewitt is currently an executive consultant at global professional services firm WSP and is a former chair of UKTram and of the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board. He was Chief Executive and later Chair of Tramlink Nottingham, has held senior positions at London Trams and London Tramlink and started his career in 1988 as a graduate trainee at London Underground.
Anne Shaw, Executive Director at TfWM, said: “West Midlands Metro is a crucial part of our regional transport network and key to our plans to decarbonise our transport and offer people sustainable, convenient and affordable alternatives to the car for their journeys. As a result it is going through a period of expansion and great change with new extensions under development and a doubling of the tram fleet.
“So we are delighted that Phil Hewitt, who knows West Midlands Metro well, is returning to us to give us the benefit of his vast experience. His expertise on the Metro board will be crucial in advising and guiding the organisation as it continues to grow and provides an improved service to passengers.”
Mr Hewitt will start his role in January and replaces Sophie Allison who has recently been appointed as Managing Director on MML.