Great British Rail Replacement (GBRR), launched in July by CMAC Group, has named Shakil Akbar (pictured) as Rail Replacement Manager North.
Mr Akbar has over 20 years’ experience in rail replacement. That includes central roles with Fraser Eagle, First Rail Support (now First Travel Solutions) and most recently Abellio Rail Replacement, where he was responsible for management of the Scotrail rail replacement contact.
With GBRR, he will work with the leadership team to streamline supplier coordination, improve response times during disruption, and enhance operational delivery. CMAC says that appointment of Mr Akbar reinforces its “commitment to advancing GBRR’s strategic goals.”
Speaking about his arrival, Mr Akbar adds: “GBRR is setting the benchmark for rail replacement services in the UK. I am pleased to be joining at such an important time.
“The developments made by GBRR so far demonstrate the team’s commitment to raising industry standards and I look forward to contributing to this, delivering an even better service for rail operators and passengers.”
He observes that a recently announced schedule to commence renationalisation of all Department for Transport (DfT)-controlled train operating companies (TOCs) in England from 2025 leaves important questions for passengers about how disruption will be managed and journeys supported during that transition.
“By working closely with transport operators and other stakeholders, we aim to improve the overall customer experience and help to reframe perceptions of rail replacement as the sector transitions to a more reliable and resilient system,” Mr Akbar continues.
Since formation, GBRR has already undertaken what it says are “significant steps to redefine industry standards in relation to rail disruption.”
Those include engagement with TOCs and DfT to align its service innovations with the rail industry’s evolving needs; a comprehensive review of the UK rail replacement market; competitor analysis; and the establishment of internal working groups focused on customer experience, safety, supply chain management, technology, pricing, and service delivery.
CMAC Chief Executive Officer Peter Slater has welcomed Mr Akbar to the business. “Shakil’s proven track record, industry knowledge and strong working relationships with large vehicle and taxi suppliers across the UK will be invaluable as we build on the progress made since GBRR’s launch,” he says.
