David Astill (pictured, above) has become Chair of ALBUM. He succeeds Bill Hiron (pictured, below) and was appointed at a meeting of the representative body’s directors on 29 January.
Mr Hiron, who is Managing Director of ALBUM member Stephensons of Essex, was Chair for more than six years, including during the pandemic period. Long a tireless advocate for the SME operator, he is credited by the Association as having shown “steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment to the UK’s bus industry.”
As Managing Director of Nottingham City Transport (NCT), Mr Astill will bring similar qualities to the leadership of ALBUM. He was appointed unanimously by its directors, among whom Mr Hiron will continue to serve on the 12-strong panel. A Vice-Chair is yet to be appointed.
In 2024 Mr Hiron was awarded an MBE for services to passenger transport. He collected that honour recently from Princess Anne at Windsor Castle.
Speaking about his time as Chair, Mr Hiron says: “It has been an honour to serve as ALBUM Chair for over six years, particularly during such a transformative period for the industry. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, from navigating the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic to strengthening our relationship with key stakeholders.
“I have every confidence in David’s ability to lead ALBUM forward, and I look forward to continuing to support the organisation in my role as a director.”
Appointment of Mr Astill as ALBUM Chair comes ahead of NCT hosting the Association’s 2025 conference in Nottingham during May.
Mr Astill has thanked Mr Hiron for his commitment while heading ALBUM and described his leadership during the pandemic period as being “nothing short of exceptional.”
The NCT chief continues: “I recall the weekly meetings with my fellow Managing Directors of ALBUM member companies, where Bill’s calming reassurance and direct engagement with the Department for Transport were invaluable.
“His ability to navigate the sector through one of its most turbulent periods was a testament to his dedication and expertise.”
Meanwhile, former Ascendal Group UK Managing Director Jonathan Ziebart has stepped down as an ALBUM director after his move away from the operating side of the industry to investment and advisory house RebelGroup.
