Network Rail has appointed Jamie Burles as its first deputy managing director for the Eastern region. This new role has been created to support leadership across four major routes.
Mr Burles, who began his new role this month, joins Network Rail from Greater Anglia, where he spent ten years leading the transformation of rail services in East Anglia. During his time there, he oversaw a substantial capital investment programme and achieved industry-leading levels of train service performance.
He will work alongside Jake Kelly, the current regional managing director for the Eastern region, providing executive influence and strategic leadership across the East Coast, North and East, East Midlands, and Anglia routes. Mr Burles will also support Ellie Burrows, who will take over as regional managing director in April 2025 when Mr Kelly returns to the North West & Central region in the same role.
Mr Burles will be instrumental in delivering Network Rail’s control period commitments and driving sustainable improvements for both passengers and freight users, contributing to the organisation’s vision of a simpler, better, and greener railway.
Speaking of his appointment, Jamie said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the new deputy regional managing director. This region is a vital part of the network, connecting passengers across cities like Leeds, Sheffield, Derby, Norwich, Cambridge and London.
“It will also see transformational infrastructure investment over the coming years, such as the Midland Main Line Upgrade and the East Coast Digital Programme, linking people on a greener and more reliable railway.
“I am looking forward to working closely with our passengers, partners and colleagues to improve rail services and it is great to already see the excellent work being done across the region.”
