Jake Kelly has today commenced his role as the new Regional Managing Director for Network Rail’s North West & Central (NW&C) region, bringing with him over 25 years of extensive experience in the rail industry.
Kelly, who boasts a wealth of knowledge in both track and train operations gained from regional, national, and strategic positions, has outlined three key priorities for his tenure:
- Punctuality and Reliability: Emphasising that “every minute matters,” Kelly aims to deliver a dependable railway service that meets the expectations of passengers and freight users, driving customer growth and revenue.
- Safety First: Prioritising the safety of both staff and passengers, Kelly is committed to ensuring everyone “gets home safe every day” by upholding rigorous safe working practices.
- Financial Sustainability: Advocating for responsible spending, Kelly aims to ensure that “every pound that is entrusted to us wisely” contributes to the region’s financial stability.
Commenting on his first day, Jake Kelly, said: “I am delighted to be back on NW&C region to lead the dedicated and passionate people who serve the economies, diverse communities and world-beating tourist destinations from London Euston, along the Chilterns Line and up to the West Midlands, North West and Scottish Borders.
“Since I was last here in 2021, the railway and the political landscape have changed. I am also a different person and will draw upon my new experiences to lead this fantastic region.
“While our focus must be to run the most safe, efficient and on time railway to build people’s trust and drive economic growth, I will bring a focus on track and train integration with our partners. This is to get the industry in a good shape ahead of the formation of Great British Railways.”
Kelly’s connection to the NW&C region runs deep, with childhood memories of train journeys to Liverpool Lime Street. His experience includes a stint as Managing Director of East Midlands Trains, where he navigated the complexities of the North’s railways, and a previous role as NW&C’s Passenger Director at Network Rail, overseeing major projects like the Manchester Transformation plan, East West Rail, and HS2 On Network works.
Before returning to NW&C, Kelly served as Group Director for Network Rail’s system operator function and, most recently, as Eastern’s Regional Managing Director. His background also includes significant customer service and commercial roles within train operating companies.
Kelly believes that prioritising customer service and financial sustainability is crucial for attracting passengers, boosting revenue, and unlocking environmental, economic, and social benefits. He sees this as particularly vital as the rail industry celebrates its 200th anniversary this year as part of Railway200.
