Virgin Rail Group has appointed Phil Pacey as Director, New Rail Projects, to look for rail transport opportunities worldwide. The appointment comes as overseas administrations urge Virgin to replicate its UK rail success and bring its vast railway and transportation experience to their railway operations
Virgin Rail Group will also continue to explore opportunities for domestic long distance franchises whilst working with joint venture partners on high speed and long distance concessions abroad. Phil Pacey’s remit will be to explore these exciting opportunities.
Phil joins Virgin Rail Group from the Go Ahead Group where he was involved in the successful restructuring and sale of its aviation division. He has widespread rail industry experience.
Tony Collins, Virgin Rail Group Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted that Phil has joined the team. He brings a wealth of experience of both UK rail and working with joint venture partners to deliver winning business solutions at a time when Virgin Rail Group is looking to use its experience, expertise and business partnerships to expand its operations significantly.”
Phil, who is already working on key projects, said: “I am pleased to be joining Virgin Rail at this time with so many substantial business opportunities available. Virgin has shown great vision in bringing the current West Coast service offer to a high level of performance. I am looking forward to developing and increasing the Virgin Rail Group portfolio. Overseas governments have seen the benefits of railway privatisation in the UK and the entrepreneurial skill and leadership that Virgin Rail Group has demonstrated and they want Virgin to be a part of their exciting plans.”
