Blackpool Transport Services has strengthened its executive leadership team with the appointment of two new directors, promoting Jamie Swift and Steve Staley to its board as the operator looks to further improve its tram and bus services across the Fylde Coast.
The appointments will see Swift take up the role of Commercial Director, while Staley becomes Tramway Director, bringing additional operational and commercial expertise into the organisation’s senior decision-making.
Wholly owned by Blackpool Council, Blackpool Transport operates the town’s tramway alongside its local bus network, providing essential transport connections for residents, commuters and visitors.
Both appointments have been made internally, recognising the contribution the two executives have already made to the business and their experience across the wider light rail industry.
Extensive light rail experience
Jamie Swift joined Blackpool Transport in January 2025 and has most recently served as Head of Commercial.
Before joining the organisation, he held senior positions at Edinburgh Trams and Tramlink Nottingham, bringing experience from two of the UK’s established modern tram networks.
His promotion to Commercial Director will see him take on a more strategic role in shaping the organisation’s commercial activities and supporting its future development.
Steve Staley joined Blackpool Transport as Tramway Operations and Safety Manager in June 2025.
His career includes experience at Manchester Metrolink, Dubai Metro and Riyadh Metro, providing a background in light rail and metro operations across both UK and international networks.
As Tramway Director, Staley will bring that operational and safety experience directly into board-level decision-making.
Strengthening operational leadership
The promotions are intended to strengthen operational representation on Blackpool Transport’s board, ensuring commercial performance and tramway operations remain central to the organisation’s strategic direction.
Lea Harrison, Managing Director of Blackpool Transport, said: “Both Jamie and Steve have already helped to transform operational and commercial performance across our organisation.
“Bringing with them fresh ideas and a wealth of industry experience, their elevation to the board of directors will help them to continue this work at a more strategic level as we plan for further enhancements to transport services that tens of thousands of people rely on every day.”
The appointments come as transport operators across the light rail sector continue to balance operational performance, safety, financial sustainability and the need to improve passenger services.
With experience spanning established UK tram systems and major international metro networks, the new directors will be positioned to support the next stage of the organisation’s development while maintaining its focus on the reliability, safety and commercial performance of services across the Fylde Coast.
