TfGM announces appointment of permanent Managing Director

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has confirmed Steve Warrener as the transport body’s permanent Managing Director, after taking on the role on an interim basis in January 2024.

Responsible for the day to day running of the organisation, Steve’s appointment comes as work to deliver the Bee Network will see all the city-region’s bus services come under local control in the new year, and bring annual expenditure at TfGM to around £1 billion.

Steve, who joined TfGM in 2007, has previously worked in senior finance roles including at Manchester Airport, and KPMG and was formerly Finance and Corporate Services Director at TfGM. 
 
During his time at TfGM Steve has overseen the launch of the Bee Network, as Greater Manchester made history by being the first area to bring buses under local control, as well as the delivery of a number of key projects that have transformed public transport in Greater Manchester, including:  

• A capital programme of more than £2bn to make Metrolink the largest light rail network in the country, with new lines to Manchester Airport, East Didsbury, Ashton, Oldham, Rochdale, MediaCity and the Trafford Centre 
• The Leigh Guided Busway  
• A series of new and upgraded bus stations and interchanges, including a brand-new, award-winning site in the heart of Stockport town centre 
• Major investment in active travel, with more than 120km of new, safe and accessible walking, wheeling and cycling routes delivered across the city-region 

Matt Bull will replace Steve as Finance and Corporate Services Director and joins TfGM’s Executive Leadership Team, having previously held the role of Deputy Finance Director. Matt joined TfGM in 2022 having previously held senior finance roles at PricewaterhouseCoopers and The World Bank.  

The Managing Director role is part of a new leadership structure supporting Caroline Simpson, who this summer was appointed group Chief Executive for Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Transport for Greater Manchester and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, after previously serving as Chief Executive of Stockport Council.

Commenting on Steve’s appointment, Caroline Simpson, said:

“Steve is part of the fabric of TfGM and I am delighted at his permanent appointment as Managing Director. 

“The role is absolutely key and Steve’s experience will be invaluable as the Bee Network continues to develop, with the completion of bus franchising in January and plans to integrate eight rail lines by 2028. 

“The position could not be in more capable hands and I have no doubt TfGM and the Bee Network will go from strength to strength with Steve in this role.” 

On his appointment, Steve Warrener said:

“I am proud to have been permanently appointed as Managing Director at TfGM. 

“While I have played a part in many milestones and achievements during my time here, there is no more exciting time than now.  

“The continuing delivery of the Bee Network across our city region is playing a hugely important role in opening opportunity for everyone and in underpinning and driving economic growth. 

“It is a bold, trailblazing vision and one I am committed to helping Greater Manchester realise. 

“By creating a more joined-up, accessible, cheaper and reliable public transport and active travel system we are making it easier for everyone that lives here to access jobs, education, leisure and vital public services.”