Jo Parker is new West Midlands Rail programme director

West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) has announced the appointment of Joanne Parker as West Midlands Rail programme director.

Jo was previous appointment was as a senior project manager with SLC Rail. She has over twenty years of experience of delivery in the rail sector and has spent the last nine months supporting the region’s rail programme in the redevelopment of University Station in Birmingham.

She takes up her new position at a time of intense activity as WMRE delivers new stations and rail services to transform the region’s rail network. Key projects include the rebuilding of University and Perry Barr stations, the construction of a third access at Snow Hill station and the development of new stations on the Camp Hill line and at Willenhall and Darlaston.

With all of these new stations recently reaching single option design stage, the team will focus on planning approval and taking the stations through to design, build and construction.

Malcolm Holmes, executive director of the West Midlands Rail Executive, said: “Jo has an excellent track record working collaboratively with industry partners to deliver these new stations which will transform the lives of West Midlanders.”

Jo replied: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to deliver these great new stations, connecting communities in the West Midlands to the railway.

“It’s a great time to be involved in rail in the West Midlands as we are seeing an unprecedented level of investment that will make a real difference for people.”