EMR boss to leave role amid ongoing train problems

The managing director of East Midlands Railway has stepped down following problems with a new fleet of trains.

Company operator Transport UK Group said Will Rogers would be leaving his post on Monday.

It comes after ongoing problems with EMR's fleet of trains, including reliability and maintenance issues with the new Aurora (Class 810) trains, made by Hitachi Rail, which prompted it to reduce services.

Rogers said: "It has been a privilege to lead EMR since 2020 and to support our teams through a period of significant change."

The recent issues include the cancellation of a number of Intercity services, which run to and from London St Pancras, while other services have had fewer carriages.

Earlier this month, Rogers said the performance of the Class 810 fleet had "fallen below the levels we and our customers expect" and that the timetable change was "necessary".

According to experts, the heat, ongoing shortage of stock and "teething problems" with new trains, have been reasons for EMR problems.

Rogers joined EMR in January 2020. He guided the business through multiple lockdowns, retirement of the high-speed trains, refurbishment of all fleets and the introduction of the Aurora trains, said Transport UK.

He also led EMR in responding to the fatal train crash near Bedford on 19 June.

Dominic Booth, Transport UK CEO, said: "He has been instrumental in delivering exceptional service to our customers and has embodied the Transport UK delivery-first mentality.

"In recent weeks, Will has also given his all in responding to the tragic incident at Bedford South. I would like to thank Will for all his efforts and wish him the best in the future."

Rogers said: "I am sad to say goodbye to a business and to colleagues who have meant so much to me.

"I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside such talented, committed and caring people, and I will always be grateful for the experiences, friendships and memories we've shared."

Neil Grabham will take on the role of interim managing director of EMR.

For the last three years, he has been the managing director of Merseyrail and previously worked as customer services director within EMR.

He said: "I am genuinely pleased to be returning to EMR on an interim basis and to have the opportunity to work alongside colleagues once again.

"EMR has always held a special place for me, and I know first-hand the dedication, professionalism and commitment that exists across the business."

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