The Railway Industry Association (RIA) has announced the appointment of the new chair and vice chair for the RIA SME Group.
Catherine Leech, managing director at Anturas Consulting Ltd, takes the position of chair, and Mike Harmer, chief of strategic operations at Belvoir Rail becomes vice chair. They replace Lucy Prior and Paul McSharry as outgoing chair and vice chair.
“I am delighted to be taking on the role of SME group chair,” said Catherine. “I’m looking forward to continuing the incredible work that Lucy and Paul have started in raising the profile and importance of SMEs in the rail industry. We are all facing challenges and with Mike’s support, help and input I hope we can support SMEs overcome some of these challenges to build an even stronger SME community.”
Mike added: “I am truly honoured to step into the position of vice chair of the SME Group, working alongside Catherine. SMEs are pivotal in driving innovation and growth within the rail industry, and I am committed to helping them thrive and supporting their success in rail.”
Darren Caplan, chief executive of RIA, stated: “We are delighted to welcome Catherine and Mike as chair and vice chair of the SME Group. Their industry credentials and experience along with their exceptional leadership skills set the SME Group in good stead for the coming years. I have every confidence that Catherine and Mike will continue the work done by Lucy and Paul and will be a powerful voice for SMEs in rail as the industry goes through significant changes. We look forward to supporting them during their tenures.”
Image credit: RIA
