The Managing Director of National Express’ UK bus division, Peter Coates, is retiring after 20 years with the transport company.
Peter initially joined National Express from accountants Ernst & Young. He went on to become Finance Director of UK Bus in 1999, and then Managing Director in 2011.
National Express Group Chief Executive, Dean Finch, says: “Peter has led National Express’ UK Bus business with distinction, combining a passion for the bus business with a forensic understanding of its operations.
“He has also been a much appreciated colleague and friend. It has been a pleasure to work with Peter – everyone at National Express wishes him all the best for the future.”
Peter steps down as Managing Director for UK Bus on 1 May 2017. He will work on strategic projects for the Group until his retirement next year.
Chief Operating Officer, Paul Thomas, has been promoted to Managing Director of UK Bus. Paul has worked for National Express in various engineering and management roles for a total of 15 years. He also worked as Managing Director of First Bus Scotland East, before re-joining National Express in 2014.
Tom Stables will become Managing Director UK and Germany, with the divisional managing directors in the UK coach and bus divisions and German rail business all reporting into him.