James O’Neill has been named Commercial Director by Stagecoach South. While he joins from sister company Stagecoach West, Mr O’Neill’s appointment marks a return to where his career with the group began in 2007 as Commercial Assistant.
As Commercial Director, Mr O’Neill will oversee the strategic management and planning of local bus networks, fares and marketing. He will also continue the evolution of what Stagecoach describes as “customer focused, cost effective and reliable” services across Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex, and play a significant part in stakeholder liaison.
Speaking about his return to Stagecoach South, James O’Neill says: “I have spent much of my career with Stagecoach, and it is great to be back in the south. I am looking forward to the challenge and I am keen to build on the great work that the South team have been doing as we position our bus networks for future growth.
“Having the right networks in place to meet customer expectation will be vital in the months ahead. We will work closely with our local authorities and key stakeholder to develop opportunities through the government’s National Bus Strategy and local Bus Service Improvement Plans.”
Adds Stagecoach South Managing Director Edward Hodgson: “We are delighted to welcome James back to the business. He brings with him a wealth of commercial experience and is a fantastic addition to our management team.
“He will play an invaluable role in ensuring that we are well placed to deliver bus networks that reflect the evolving, post-COVID-19 travel demand patterns.”
