Leadership change at GB Railfreight

GB Railfreight has announced a planned leadership transition and two promotions in senior management to further support the company’s growth. On the occasion of GBRf’s 25th anniversary, CEO John Smith has initiated the process of appointing his successor. The transition is expected to take place next year. Smith will continue to lead the company during this time and ensure a smooth handover.

As part of these changes, two senior positions have also been filled. Liam Day (left) has been promoted from Asset Director to Interim Managing Director, while Ian Langton (right) has risen from Production Director to Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Day joined the company in 2014 after previously working at Network Rail. He began his career through a management training program at Network Rail and then moved into rail freight. At GBRf, he initially served as Terminal Development Manager and later held various positions, including Head of Estates and General Manager in the commercial team. In March 2020, he was appointed Commercial Director and in September 2024, Asset Director.

Langton joined GBRf in April 2012 from DB Schenker, where he worked for 22 years after starting his career at British Rail. He started as Head of Operations and was appointed Production Director in 2018, where he oversees the daily execution of GBRf operations.

John Smith commented on the changes: “GB Railfreight is in an exceptionally strong position. This year, we have become the largest rail freight operator in the United Kingdom, and our industry-leading Class 99 hybrid locomotives have entered service, helping to future-proof the company for the years to come. Given our 25th anniversary, this is a natural time to plan for the future of the company.” He added that the transition will be carefully managed over the coming year and that he remains fully committed to leading the company.

James Cooper, Chairman of GB Railfreight, described the changes as a significant moment for the company. He emphasized that Smith, who has led the company since its founding 25 years ago, has been instrumental in its growth from a start-up to the largest rail freight operator in the United Kingdom. Cooper stressed that Smith’s experience will be invaluable for the next phase of the company’s development to realize the full potential of the company and its employees.

www.gbrailfreight.com