Tram and bus services in Edinburgh are set to enjoy better integration following the appointment of a Chief Executive who will have overall responsibility for both Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams. Sarah Boyd, who was Managing Director of Lothian Buses, will move into the new role to help deliver the desired outcome of City of Edinburgh Council to achieve a more integrated approach to the delivery of public transport in and across Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Sarah, had been Managing Director at Lothian Buses since 2022, will bring extensive leadership experience in the transport sector. She has a proven track record for delivery in people management, operations and finance, and will guide the organisations into the next phase of their development. This will include driving strategic growth, fostering innovation and ensuring the combined strengths of both award-winning companies are fully realised for customers, colleagues and stakeholders.
As well as this new appointment there will be an Integration Agreement which aims to be a significant step towards enhanced operational integration and an improved customer experience. It is not expected that passengers will notice any difference during the transition with service excellence continuing to be a priority.
Lothian Buses current Chair, Susan Deacon, and non-executive directors will also be appointed to the Board of Edinburgh Trams.
As part of the new arrangements current Edinburgh Trams Managing Director, Lea Harrison, will leave the organisation although will remain in position until the end of January 2026 to provide continuity and support during the early part of the transition.
Stephen Jenkinson, Transport Convener at the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “We want our public transport system to be the best it can be – and this long-awaited step of bringing our two main operators even closer together can only be a good thing for Edinburgh’s travelling public.
“I’d like to congratulate Sarah Boyd and Susan Deacon on their well-deserved appointments. They’ve done an excellent job in leading Lothian over the last few years, and I have no doubt their experience, insight and knowledge will help them to steer our award-winning transport companies through this next vital phase of integration.
“My thanks also go to Lea Harrison, the outgoing Managing Director of Edinburgh Trams, along with the other tram board members for their service over the years. I’m also grateful that Lea will remain until early next year to assist with the transition process and ensure continuity.
“This shift in the way we work together is ultimately to make sure our operators are best equipped to serve our residents and visitors, whilst facing up to the future transport challenges of our city.”