Passing the Baton: Welcoming New Leadership in CIRO’ s Midlands and North East Area Councils
As CIRO continues to grow and evolve, two of our long-standing area council chairs have recently handed over the reins to new leaders.
Rachel Heath FCIRO has passed the Chair of the Midlands Area Council to Bronnie Clarke, and Jason Wade FCIRO has stepped down as Chair of the North East Area Council, making way for Adrian Caffrey ACIRO.
Both Rachel and Jason have served with dedication and distinction, contributing not just to their area councils but to CIRO as a whole. While they are stepping back from their Area Council Chair roles, they will remain closely involved as Governors on CIRO’ s Board.
We caught up with them— and with Bronnie and Adrian— to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to what’ s next.
Reflecting on 17 Remarkable Years – Jason Wade FCIRO
Jason joined CIRO’ s North East Council in 2007 and became Chair just a year later. Over the next 17 years, his leadership helped the council flourish into a consistent source of insight, connection, and learning.
“ Leading the area in delivering a varied events programme that offers members insight into all aspects of railway operations has been something I’ m really proud of,” Jason said.“ We’ ve also explored topics outside the usual operator scope, which helped members build a more rounded view.”
One standout memory for Jason was an overseas study visit:“ My favourite event was a trip to Ireland hosted by the CIRO Irish Council. It was my first time visiting both Northern Ireland and the Republic, so it was a culturally and professionally enriching experience. Plus, spending time socially with fellow members helped build genuine friendships.”
Though stepping back was not an easy decision, Jason felt the timing was right.“ Being Chair gave me immense personal satisfaction and helped grow my professional network. I’ ve seen both the Institution and the North East Area grow significantly. But I believe in giving others the chance to gain the kind of valuable experience I’ ve had.”
Of Adrian, Jason says,“ He’ s been a valued member of our council for many years and is perfectly placed to take the area to even greater success.”
A Decade of Dedication – Rachel Heath FCIRO
Rachel joined the Midlands Area Council in 2013 and took on the role of Chair in 2015. Her leadership has helped open doors and create connections across the industry.
“ What I’ m most proud of is continuing the legacy of previous chairs— offering opportunities for people to deepen their understanding of operations and grow their networks,” she shared.“ I often speak with people who say CIRO introduced them to ideas and contacts that changed their career paths. That’ s something really special.”
Her favourite events?“ Family social days, without a doubt! It’ s a chance for everyone who supports us in our day jobs to enjoy time together. I particularly love our SVR visits— it’ s close to my heart, being based in my hometown.”
Rachel is confident that Bronnie is the right person to carry things forward.“ Bronnie is everything we need in a CIRO council member— enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and aligned with CIRO’ s future vision. I know she’ ll do a fantastic job, and our members will continue to benefit from the council’ s excellent work, especially as we move toward a more integrated GBR model.”
Meet the New Chairs
With Bronnie Clarke and Adrian Caffrey now at the helm of the Midlands and North East Area Councils respectively, we sat down with them to hear about their career journeys, interests, and visions for the future.
62 CIRO | Bulletin 55