• new Chief Executive will join DFTO to lead pivotal phase as more train companies come into public ownership 
• appointment marks next chapter as government moves closer to establishment of Great British Railways 
• department thanks Robin Gisby for his work in making DFTO the home of publicly owned train operators

Alex Hynes has been appointed as the new Chief Executive of Department for Transport Operator Limited (DFTO) to lead the next phase in the transition to Great British Railways. 

DFTO is the government body which is bringing all currently privately-owned train operators into public ownership ahead of the creation of Great British Railways. 

With significant experience in both the rail industry and Department for Transport, his appointment will support the government’s mission to bring together track and train – delivering a better service for passengers. 

Before joining the civil service, Alex held senior positions at both ScotRail and Network Rail Scotland between 2017 and 2024. This followed his extensive career as Managing Director of Northern before the operator transferred into public ownership in 2020, delivering their best ever customer satisfaction scores and record levels of employee engagement. 

The handover will take place on 23 December 2025 as current CEO Robin Gisby’s fixed-term contract comes to an end.  

Further information:

Alex Hynes named as new CEO of DfT Operator - GOV.UK