London transport leader appointed in strategy role at Transport for the North

A senior leader who has overseen transformation of London’s transport network is set to join Transport for the North to coordinate investment across the region.

Industry leader David Hughes will draw on experience in the capital to drive investment in the North’s transport infrastructure

Mr Hughes, who will join Transport for the North as Director of Strategy and Programme in 2020, has spent the last 15 years in senior roles at Transport for London.

He’ll draw on his experience in the capital, where his roles have most recently included Investment Delivery Planning Director, where he planned all aspects of TfL’s multi-billion capital investment programme.

Returning to the North, David will have oversight of the delivery of some of the North’s most high-profile projects. He’ll lead on driving forward the Northern Infrastructure Pipeline – a list of road and rail schemes

Barry White, Chief Executive of Transport for the North, 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.”

Having grown up in Sunderland and attended university in Liverpool, David went on to work for the UK Ministry of Defence, Deloitte and the BBC before joining TfL in 2004.

During his time with TfL he has held various roles including 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 the multi-billion Crossrail project as Director of Crossrail Joint Sponsor Team.

David Hughes 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.”

David will take up the role in February 2020.