<p>Porterbrook, the rolling stock owner and asset manager, today announced the appointment of Ben Ackroyd as the company’s first Chief Operating Officer. </p>
<p>This Board level role will see Ben take strategic responsibility for all operational aspects of the business. Porterbrook owns a quarter of Britain's passenger trains, is expanding its railfreight portfolio and has recently taken over the 135 acre test-track and innovation centre at Long Marston in Warwickshire.</p>
<p>Ben will join Porterbrook in Spring 2022 from Trenitalia C2C Limited, where he is currently Managing Director. He brings a wealth of train operating and service delivery experience to his new position as COO, acquired over 20 years in engineering and general management roles across the industry.</p>
<p>Mary Grant, Porterbrook CEO said: “I am delighted that Ben has agreed to join us. The Williams Shapps Plan for Rail and the creation of Great British Railways provide a unique opportunity for Porterbrook to build on its reputation for collaboration, innovation and customer focus. Ben's first-hand experience of senior operational roles will ensure that we continue supporting our passenger, freight and infrastructure customers; whilst swiftly responding to their emerging needs."</p>
<p>Ben Ackroyd, COO designate, said: “I am very excited to be joining Porterbrook at a key time for our industry. All of us need to evolve to embrace the opportunities that will be created by the formation of GBR. I look forward to working with Mary and her Executive Team to ensure that Porterbrook remains absolutely focused on supporting our customers and the operating railway."</p>