Boss of Derby train-maker Bombardier quits role for ‘personal reasons’

The boss of Derby train-maker Bombardier has told the company he is quitting his role due to ‘personal reasons’.

Phil Hufton was appointed as president (UK region) and chairman at Bombardier Transportation UK, which has its factory in Litchurch Lane, a year ago.

But the company, which employs around 1,600 people in Derby, has announced that Mr Hufton has “informed the company of his intention to resign for personal reasons”.

Bombardier said that Matt Byrne has taken over the role with immediate effect, with Mr Hufton agreeing to stay on for a short period to ensure a smooth handover.

Mr Byrne, who joined Bombardier in 2000, has held various senior leadership positions at the company. Since 2016 he has led the company’s global services business.

Matt Byrne has taken over the role with immediate effect (Alex Qureitem Photograhy)

Danny Di Perna, president of Bombardier Transportation, said: “Matt Byrne is ideally positioned to lead our business in the UK region, one of our largest and most important markets.

“Matt has been leading our global services business for almost three years through a phase of strong profitable growth and has a deep understanding of customer needs and the UK market.

“I want to thank Phil for his strong leadership and commitment during an important time for the UK business - and for his many years of service to Bombardier and its predecessor companies.”