Transport secretary Chris Grayling has appointed Sir Terry Morgan as the new HS2 chairman.
Sir Terry has been the chair of Crossrail since 2009 and will replace outgoing chair Sir David Higgins on August 1.
Announcements on HS2’s new chief operating officer and new chief finance officer are expected shortly.
A former chief executive of Tube Lines, Sir Terry brings with him a wealth of top industry experience.
Grayling said Sir Terry’s appointment ensures the project will continue to have “world class leadership”.
He added: “His wealth of experience and expertise, demonstrated in numerous leading roles including overseeing the ambitious Crossrail project, as well as his respected reputation and enthusiasm, will be invaluable in the project’s continued success.
“I also extend my great thanks to Sir David Higgins, who has led this project with determination and vision. He has brought huge expertise and experience to the development of the project and to making the case for HS2 as a driver of economic transformation.”
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Sir Terry Morgan added: “It is a privilege to take up this crucial role with HS2 – a railway that will help transform this country through better connections for over 300,000 passengers every single day.
“HS2 will be a driving force behind greater prosperity and productivity across the country, unlocking opportunities for growth and regeneration and building a transport network fit for the future.”
HS2 CEO Mark Thurston said that, as the project moves from design to construction, it is “stepping up a gear”.
He added: “In our short history we have contracted over 2,300 small, medium and large firms across the country and that process is only going to keep picking up pace in the next few years. As we continue to evolve as an organisation to meet that challenge, the guidance and direction that Terry will bring to his role will be vital.”
In addition, Ed Smith CBE has been appointed as a non-executive HS2 director.
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