Bombardier boss to lead Network Rail IP

Bombardier’s current managing director, Francis Paonessa, is to become the new head of infrastructure projects at Network Rail.

Paonessa will succeed Simon Kirby in the summer, who leaves Network Rail to become the new chief executive of HS2 in June.

April marked the start of Control Period 5 – a five-year investment period in which Network Rail will spend £25 billion on renewals and enhancements across the network.

Mark Carne, Network Rail chief executive, said: “The scale and complexity of Network Rail’s investment programme makes this one of the most challenging and exciting roles in Britain today.

“Francis brings with him significant leadership experience from the rail industry, including a strong focus on both workforce and passenger safety. I would like to welcome him to Network Rail and know that he will continue Simon’s excellent work as we build a bigger, better railway for Britain.”

Francis joined Bombardier in 2010 as president of UK rolling stock.