SILVER JUBILEE 2025: CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF CIRO
2025 marked a significant milestone in CIRO’ s history as we celebrated our 25th anniversary. Our Silver Jubilee provided an opportunity to reflect on a quarter of a century of championing professionalism in railway operations, recognising the people, partnerships and achievements that have shaped the Institution since its formation in 2000.
Throughout the year, we celebrated this landmark anniversary through a programme of activities designed to honour our heritage while looking confidently towards the future. Members, partners and the wider rail community joined us in recognising the impact CIRO has made in developing rail professionals and supporting operational excellence across the industry.
The centrepiece of the celebrations was our Jubilee Lunch, which brought together members, past and present leaders, industry partners and distinguished guests, including Lord Hendy, Minister of State for Rail, to celebrate CIRO’ s achievements over the past 25 years. The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the Institution’ s journey, recognise those who have helped shape its success, and reaffirm our shared commitment to supporting the future of railway operations.
The Jubilee year also saw a GB Railfreight Class 66 locomotive named in honour of CIRO’ s 25th anniversary, creating a lasting symbol of the Institution’ s contribution to the railway industry. Alongside this, we released a limited-edition Jubilee Boxset featuring the fourth edition of The Operator’ s Handbook, a valuable industry resource for rail professionals, together with specially commissioned artwork and commemorative packaging to mark this significant milestone.
Reflecting on the anniversary, Phil Sherratt, Chief Executive Officer of CIRO, said:“ As we celebrate 25 years of CIRO, we reflect on the incredible journey that has shaped us into the leading professional body for railway operations. This anniversary is not just about looking back— It’ s about looking forward. CIRO remains committed to supporting the rail industry by developing skilled professionals, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation.”
As our Silver Jubilee year draws to a close, we do so with immense pride in everything that has been achieved over the past 25 years. More importantly, we look ahead with confidence, continuing to build on this legacy by supporting the next generation of rail professionals and helping to shape the future of railway operations for many years to come.
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