Compass Travel has announced the appointment of Michael Bishop as Managing Director as part of a leadership restructure.
Mr Bishop will take over the day-today running of the Sussex coach and bus operator, while founder and owner Chris Chatfield will become Chair.
Having been General Manager since 2015, the new MD has a wealth of experience within the business, Compass Travel notes.
Mr Chatfield will remain active on the Board and play a key role in the future direction of a business he set up in 1994.
As well as operating a wide network of local bus services in Sussex and Surrey, Compass Travel has been expanding its private hire arm.
It has recently invested £1.4 million in new vehicles, including its first new double-deck buses and two soon-to-arrive new coaches.
Mr Bishop, who is on the Board of ALBUM, says: “I am pleased and honoured to take on the role of Managing Director after working closely with Chris and the wider team over the past 12 years. During this time, I have seen first-hand the dedication and professionalism that exists across the company.
“Working closely with Chris has given me a strong understanding of the values that have shaped Compass Travel for more than three decades.
“While my role is changing, those principles will remain the same. My focus will be on supporting our teams, continuing to improve the services we provide, and ensuring Compass Travel remains a company people are proud to work for. I look forward to building on this together as we move into the next chapter.”
Mr Chatfield adds: “Now is the right time for me to step back from the day-to-day running of the business, after 40 years in the bus industry.
“Michael has proved himself to be dedicated, capable and aligned with the values that make Compass Travel what it is today. I am confident the company will continue with the same ethos that has guided us for the last 31 years.
“I look forward to supporting Michael in this next phase, while continuing my involvement in the industry.”
