Bus and coach operator National Express has appointed Jose Ignacio Garat, who has previously worked at delivery giants FedEx and TNT, as its new chief executive.
The FTSE 250 transport firm said the 52-year-old will become boss with effect from November 1. He joins at a time when the company is trying to recover from Covid-19 disruption.
National Express has seen passenger numbers hurt by travel restrictions and numerous people continuing to work from home.
National Express’ previous leader Dean Finch left the business to join housebuilder Persimmon in August. Chris Davies took over as interim chief executive, and will now remain as group finance director.
Garat was, until recently, senior vice president Southern Europe, France and Benelux pperations for FedEx. He has also previously worked at TNT.
Garat, who will receive a base salary of £575,000, said: “I have watched National Express Group’s growth in recent years to become the leader in its sector, so it is a privilege to be given the opportunity to lead the company as it navigates the pandemic and positions itself for future growth.”
Sir John Armitt, National Express chairman, said: “Ignacio has the extensive international operational and strategic experience to lead National Express Group through the challenges presented by the pandemic, as well as the significant future opportunities that exist.”
