The Chartered Institution of Railway Operators (CIRO) has announced a new mission and set of values as part of a two-year strategy spearheaded by CEO Phil Sherratt, who joined the institution in October 2024. The move coincides with CIRO’s upcoming 25th anniversary in 2025 and signals its commitment to shaping the future of the rail industry.
Jim Meade, CEO of Irish Rail and Chair of CIRO’s Board of Governors, commented, “As Chair of CIRO, I am proud to see the Institution take this next significant step in its journey. Over the past 25 years, CIRO has become an integral part of the rail industry, and as we look to the future, it is vital that we continue to evolve and remain relevant to the industry’s changing needs. Our new mission and values will ensure that CIRO continues to provide essential support and leadership to rail professionals, helping them navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.”
CIRO’s updated mission is “To lead, inspire, and accelerate the growth of rail professionals, cultivating collaboration to support the success of rail organisations, now and in the future.” This mission reflects the institution’s dedication to raising professional standards and supporting rail organisations during a period of change, aligning with the UK government’s rail reform agenda.
The refreshed values underpinning CIRO’s work are:
- Member Focused: Prioritising members in all activities.
- Inclusive: Promoting fairness, diversity, and equity.
- Collaborative: Strengthening impact through partnerships.
- Professional and Accountable: Upholding high ethical and professional standards.
- Knowledgeable: Driving lifelong learning and informed decisions.
- Innovative: Embracing creativity and ambition.
These values are designed to enhance member benefits, including tailored learning programmes, apprenticeships, and leadership development. CIRO’s collaborative approach aims to foster a dynamic network for knowledge sharing and shaping the industry’s future. Accredited qualifications and career support will ensure members maintain high standards of excellence.
CIRO’s mission and values also align with priorities outlined in Labour’s Plan to Fix Britain’s Railways, supporting workforce development, operational excellence, and a railway that works for everyone. The institution aims to be a key partner in the transformation of the UK rail network.
Values That Define CIRO
Alongside the new mission, CIRO has introduced a refreshed set of values that reflect its commitment to supporting the government’s plan for rail by fostering an industry that is modern, accessible, and efficient. These values include:
• Member Focused: Ensuring members remain at the core of CIRO’s work.
• Inclusive: Promoting fairness, diversity, and equity across the rail industry.
• Collaborative: Strengthening impact through strategic partnerships and collective efforts.
• Professional and Accountable: Upholding the highest standards of ethics and excellence.
• Knowledgeable: Driving lifelong learning and informed decision-making.
• Innovative: Embracing creativity and ambition to lead progress in the industry.
The new mission and values are part of CIRO’s 2024-2026 strategic plan, which focuses on:
- Building a high-profile reputation.
- Enhancing the professional standing of rail operations professionals.
- Expanding global reach and influence.
- Becoming the learning provider of choice in rail education.
- Creating an inclusive and sustainable organisation.
Phil Sherratt commented, “Our new mission and values reflect our ambition to be at the forefront of rail operations, supporting workforce development and industry growth. As the UK rail industry embarks on a new era with GBR reform, CIRO stands ready to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.”
