Russell Evans

Russell has over 25 years’ experience in the GB rail industry starting in Railtrack and Network Rail with the last 18 years being with FirstGroup’s Rail Division including nine with Great Western Railway. Russell joined West Coast Partnership Development in December 2019. Russell’s experience spans operations, commercial, business development and project roles. He has also led the Sales & Marketing team in Great Western, with responsibility for revenue generation. Prior to joining WCP he had a particular emphasis on franchise bidding and leading contract negotiations relating to rolling stock transactions. This includes, as a Bid Director securing the 3-year Direct Award franchise and associated Emergency Measures Agreement for Great Western Railway signed in March 2020. He has also led the successful procurement and contracting of £500m of new trains and secured the long-term future of the Heathrow Express rail service through a unique contracting arrangement with GWR and the Department for Transport. Russell was the driving force behind the development of First Rail’s innovative Lumo service, that entered service in October 2021, demonstrating the case for the business, securing the access rights and procuring the new rolling stock. WCPD is the shadow operator for future high speed services and as a member of the executive team Russell is responsible for directing and designing all aspects of the train service for future integrated service operations, working closely with HS2 Ltd, Network Rail and the Department for Transport.