BOARD OF GOVERNOR ELECTIONS
The past year has seen several important changes to CIRO’ s Board, further strengthening the experience and expertise that guides the Institution’ s strategic direction and long-term ambitions.
In October 2025, Mark Hopwood CBE FCIRO succeeded Jim Meade FCIRO as Chair of the Board, following Jim’ s outstanding leadership during a period of significant transformation for the Institution. Mark’ s appointment marks the beginning of the next chapter as the Institution continues to build its influence and support the development of rail professionals across the industry at a time of major structural change with the imminent creation of Great British Railways.
Jason Wade | FCIRO Northern
Dave Burley | MCIRO Rail Operations Group
The Board was further strengthened following elections held during Summer 2025, with Jason Wade FCIRO( Northern) and Dave Burley MCIRO( Rail Operations Group) elected to the Board. Their appointments further broaden the Board’ s expertise and perspectives, ensuring it continues to reflect the evolving needs of the rail industry.
With these appointments, the Board of Governors at the end of September 2025 comprised:
Mark Hopwood CBE FCIRO( Chair) – Great Western Railway Phil James FCIRO( Vice-Chair) – Network Rail Jim Meade FCIRO – Irish Rail( term ending 31 October 2025) Andy Joy ACIRO – Story Contracting( term ending 31 December 2025) Claire Mann ACIRO – Transport for London Nick Dent ACIRO – Transport for London Tom Desmond MCIRO – Network Rail David Davidson FCIRO – Network Rail Rachel Heath FCIRO – Network Rail Karen Duffy FCIRO – Network Rail Chris Jackson FCIRO – TransPennine Express Jason Wade FCIRO – Northern Dave Burley MCIRO – Rail Operations Group( term starts 1 January 2026)
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