Stagecoach has appointed Chris Hanson (pictured) as Managing Director of its South Wales business. The move sees him switch places with Martin Gibbon, who takes over as Managing Director at Stagecoach West.
Chris joined Stagecoach West in 2023 and brings experience spanning frontline, communications, operational and senior leadership roles in the bus industry. He now takes responsibility for operations across South Wales and the West of England, including services in and around Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
Having begun his career as a bus driver while at university, Chris takes over at a pivotal moment for the Welsh bus market, as the Welsh Government and Transport for Wales progress plans for franchising. Chris will work with local authorities across Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Neath Port Talbot, Newport, Monmouthshire, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Swansea and Torfaen, alongside partners in Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
Stagecoach says his priorities will include improving service reliability, growing passenger numbers, strengthening engagement with colleagues and developing relationships with public sector partners.
“I am looking forward to working with Welsh Government, Transport for Wales and local authorities across our region as we work towards bus reform and franchising, while continuing to improve our network and grow bus use across South Wales,” says Chris. “At the same time, we’ll continue to strengthen our operation in the West of England, working with the West of England Combined Authority to build on the network of services we operate in and around Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
“Working with our key stakeholders and continuing to build on the strong engagement we have with colleagues across the business will be a top priority. By focusing on reliable, customer-focused services, we can encourage more people to choose the bus, benefiting both local communities and the environment.”
Adds Sam Greer, Chief Operating Officer at Stagecoach Group Limited: “We are delighted to appoint Chris to lead our South Wales business. His experience spans every level of the industry, from driving buses through to leading large operational teams, giving him a strong understanding of both our people and our customers.
“His passion for delivering excellent service, developing strong partnerships and growing bus use makes him ideally placed to lead the business through an exciting period for public transport in both South Wales and into the West of England.”
