Longstanding bus industry figure Austin Birks (pictured) has been appointed a Vice-Chair of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) UK Board of Trustees.
He sits alongside Anna-Jane Hunter, concurrently named Chair of the Board of Trustees, and fellow Vice-Chair Antoinette Irvine. Ms Hunter is a former Vice-Chair and has enjoyed a long career in the rail industry. Ms Irvine has a background in fast-moving consumer goods.
Mr Birks joined CILT in 1983 and has served as Chair of its Bus and Coach Forum since 2008. He is currently CEO of professional recruitment group Verita HR and counts a long spell with First Bus among his prior CV entries.
Speaking about his selection as a Vice-Chair of the CILT UK Board of Trustees, Mr Birks says: “I am delighted with my recent appointment and am eager to contribute value and strategic guidance to the Institute.
“I am committed to fostering positive transformation within the coach and bus sector, recognising CILT UK’s crucial role on shaping its future.”
Ms Hunter is a qualified barrister who joined the rail industry 19 years ago. She has extensive experience leading teams within Network Rail, train operating companies, and multi-agency industry groups.
She says: “This is a huge honour for me, and I am delighted to have such a fantastic team of Vice-Chairs to support me.
“As former Vice-Chair, I already have an insight and understanding of what is needed and how we can take CILT UK forward together. As our first ever female Chair, I hope to help further open new doors and become a shining example to other females in our sector.
“I look forward to hitting the ground running and working closely with the CEO and management team to deliver for our members and the sectors we represent.”
CILT UK CEO Paul Adams has thanked outgoing Chair of the Board of Trustees Vikram Singla and welcomed the new appointees.
“I know all three are bringing with them valuable experience and vision. They will help to shape a new direction for us and I very much look forward to working with them.”
