UK: Tom Hopkins has been promoted to Managing Director of independent rolling stock, operations and commercial engineering consultancy IPEX Consulting, with founder Malcolm Wilson becoming Chair.
IPEX Consulting was established in 2003 and as since undertaken projects in 19 countries, with clients including train operators, transport authorities, leasing and financial companies, the EU Agency for Railways, SNCB, Transdev, CRRC, Downer, Hitachi, Siemens, Stadler and Talgo.
Hopkins joined in January 2017. He was previously Head of Engineering at Heathrow Express, having held a variety of engineering leadership roles at Southeastern after originally starting as a graduate trainee with HSBC Rail.
At IPEX he has handled strategy, business development, delivery and general management, working on projects from transaction advice to operational excellence.
IPEX is in ‘good shape and poised for the next phase in its development’, Hopkins said. ‘While we’re facing challenging times in UK rail and we remain committed to contributing where we can, there are also exciting opportunities in other markets and I’m looking forward to future success for the IPEX team.’
Rob Clayton has been appointed as Business Development Director with an expanded portfolio, while Chris Hoskin continues as Technical Director with an expanded portfolio to include project delivery.
Clare Kissane remains Finance & Operations Director.
‘As the company embarks upon this new chapter, it is a delight to see the progress we have made and the exciting road ahead’, said Wilson. ‘I will strengthen my focus on setting the company’s direction, culture, and customer proposition. Obviously, I will still be fully engaged with the business, and our customer service ethic, seeking out and participating in projects that best utilise my own particular skills and experience.’