GB Railfreight (GBRf) has appointed Jude Winstanley as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership change as founder John Smith OBE steps down after more than 25 years at the helm.
Winstanley will take up the position on 2 November 2026, joining from London Southend Airport, where he has served as Chief Executive Officer. His previous senior leadership experience includes roles at Swissport, International Airlines Group (IAG) and British Airways, alongside an advisory position with Bain & Company.
He takes over at a pivotal time for GBRf, as the operator continues investing in fleet modernisation, operational performance and opportunities to move more freight from road to rail.
Building on 25 years of growth
Under Smith’s leadership, GBRf has developed into the UK’s largest rail freight operator, employing more than 1,400 people and operating 170 locomotives and 1,800 wagons.
The business serves customers across intermodal logistics, construction, waste, energy generation and railway infrastructure support.
Since Infracapital acquired GBRf in 2019, approximately £140 million has been invested in locomotives, maintenance facilities and depot infrastructure.
This includes the introduction of the Class 99 bi-mode locomotive fleet, which is expected to support decarbonisation and provide greater operational flexibility.
Smith will remain involved in an advisory capacity, supporting the leadership transition and continuing to lead government relations on rail reform.
James Cooper, Chairman of GB Railfreight, said: “We are delighted to welcome Jude to GBRf. His experience across transport and freight infrastructure combined with a proven track record of leadership make him ideally placed to build on GBRf’s role in supporting the UK’s freight and transport ambitions. We thank John for his outstanding contribution to GBRf over the past 25 years and his continued commitment as he supports the business through the transition.”
New leadership focused on freight growth
Winstanley will be responsible for guiding GBRf’s next phase of development, maintaining customer service and strengthening operational performance while pursuing opportunities for rail freight growth.
Incoming Chief Executive Officer Jude Winstanley said: “GBRf has built something genuinely impressive – a business that is operationally strong, commercially ambitious and increasingly central to how the UK moves goods. I am joining at a moment when rail freight has real momentum and I am looking forward to working with colleagues, customers and industry partners to build on these strong foundations”.
John Smith OBE reflected on his time leading the business, saying: “Leading GB Railfreight has been the privilege of my career. Looking back, I am enormously proud of what our people have achieved and thankful to the customers and partners who have placed their trust in us over the years. I am leaving the business in a strong position and wish Jude every success in the years ahead. He will inherit a fantastic team and a business with a great future.”
Infracapital backs next phase of investment
GBRf’s owner, Infracapital, has reaffirmed its commitment to the operator’s continued development.
Wael Elkhouly, Managing Director and Head of Asset Management at Infracapital, said: “Rail freight is of strategic importance to the UK economy, and under our ownership we have continued to grow and modernise GBRf. Against this backdrop of growth and investment, Jude’s appointment brings fresh energy and perspective at an exciting moment. We are confident Jude and his leadership team will continue to advance GBRf’s growth, innovation and strategic role in the UK’s freight network. We would like to pay tribute to John for his vision, dedication and leadership, which helped cement GBRf’s reputation in the market.”
The leadership transition comes as Britain’s rail freight sector prepares for structural reform under Great British Railways, alongside growing pressure to decarbonise domestic logistics.
For GBRf, the immediate priorities will include integrating its new locomotive fleet, maintaining service performance and securing further opportunities across established and emerging freight markets.
