NOVEMBER 2024
BULLETIN54
THE BI-ANNUAL FOR MEMBERS OF THE CHARTERED INSTITUTION OF RAILWAY OPERATORS
Alex Hynes , Director General , Rail Services , Awarded CIRO Honorary Fellowship
IN THIS ISSUE
Welcome to the latest edition of the CIRO Bulletin ! In this issue , we feature key milestones , inspiring stories , and exciting developments across the rail industry !
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CIRO Fellowship Awarded
Alex Hynes is recognised for his outstanding contribution to the UK rail industry and support for CIRO .
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Women Driving Change in Rail Zoe Kelland ’ s Journey to Becoming a Train Driver & Advocating for Gender Equality in the Industry .
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CIRO Team Supports the Railway Children A CIRO team participated in the annual Railway Children Rail Trail , raising vital funds for vulnerable children in the UK , India , and Tanzania .
The Chartered Institution of Railway Operators ( CIRO ) is delighted to announce that Alex Hynes , Director General , Rail Services and former Chair of CIRO ’ s Board , has been awarded Honorary Fellow level membership .
This recognition reflects Alex ’ s outstanding contributions to the UK rail industry and his lasting support for CIRO ’ s mission to advance professional development in railway operations .
Alex was appointed Director General , Rail Services for the Department for Transport in April 2024 , where he has since played a leading role in shaping the future of rail transport in the UK . His extensive knowledge and experience in rail operations , combined with his ability to drive innovation , continue to influence key national rail strategies during a critical period of transition for the industry , amid the ongoing GBR reform .
Alex ’ s deep commitment to the industry is not only evident in his leadership roles but also in his long-standing involvement with CIRO . As a former Chair of CIRO ’ s Board , Alex played a pivotal role in shaping the Institution ’ s strategic direction and ensuring its success in supporting the professional growth of railway operators .
CIRO Interim CEO , Annette Shipley , expressed her appreciation for Alex ’ s dedication to the Institution and the industry , stating :
“ I am thrilled that CIRO is awarding Alex with Fellow level membership . This recognition is in honour of his exceptional service to the rail industry and his vital support for CIRO ’ s mission . His support and passion have had a remarkable impact , and we are grateful for his contributions now and in the future .”
Being awarded Honorary Fellow acknowledges Alex ’ s status as a leader in railway operations . The Fellow membership of CIRO is the most senior level of membership and signifies proven expertise , professional credibility , and a commitment to the future of the industry . The official presentation of Alex ’ s Fellowship took place at CIRO ’ s Mew Members ’ Reception , hosted by the South East Area Council on Monday , 7th October . Incoming CEO , Phil Sherratt , presented the distinction , honouring Alex ’ s lasting impact on the rail community and CIRO ’ s ongoing work .
For more information on CIRO membership , or to upgrade your membership level , visit www . ciro . org or contact the CIRO membership team at membership @ railwayoperators . co . uk
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Celebrating 25 Years of
CIRO As we approach our 25th anniversary in 2025 , we reflect on two decades of achievements and look ahead to a future of growth , collaboration , and operational excellence .
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Profile : Justin Willett – A Lifelong Career in Rail
Operations From train driver to CIRO Fellow , Justin Willett shares his 30-year journey in rail and his commitment to mentoring future leaders .
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Ofqual-Approved End- Point Assessment Offering
Expands Two new Ofqualapproved apprenticeship standards have been added to CIRO ’ s EPA offering , supporting apprentices in critical rail operational roles .
Enjoy these and many more articles in this issue !