KEOLIS DOWNER APPOINTS NEW CEO

Staff WriterApril 3, 2018, 5:44 pmApril 3, 2018

NEWCASTLE BUSES OPERATOR Keolis Downer has a new CEO, with David Franks having started his role recently in late March, 2018.

Based in Sydney, Franks will oversee operations and drive the development of Keolis Downer in Australia and New Zealand, according to the company.

Franks has more than 45 years’ experience in the public transport sector and has a proven track record successfully leading public transport companies by significantly improving people management, operational performance and driving growth, the company says.
He started his career working for British Rail and then held numerous senior executive roles in the public and private sectors, across all modes, in the UK and in Sweden. During his career, Franks improved operational KPIs and grew passenger satisfaction while maintaining continuous improvements in all operational areas and building strong relationships with governments and transport authorities, it’s stated.

Most recently Franks has been CEO of the national rail operator in the Republic of Ireland, Iarnrod Eireann, leading the maintenance and renewal of the railway infrastructure and the operation of all passenger and freight rail services.

As CEO of Keolis Downer, Franks will oversee all Keolis Downer operations in Australia and drive the development of the business here and in New Zealand.

Leila Frances, chairman of Keolis Downer said: “I am delighted David is joining Keolis Downer. His operational focus and strong background partnering with Governments and public transport authorities are considerable assets to lead the development of our activities in Australia and New Zealand.”

“Governments have an ambitious agenda to deliver major infrastructure and public transport projects in Australia’s fast-growing cities and we will continue, under David’s leadership, to support the delivery of their vision.”

Keolis Downer is Australia’s largest private provider of multi-modal public transport and it is the largest light-rail operator in Australia and one of the nation’s most significant bus operators, it’s stated.