The Office of Rail and Road (ORR), the independent monitor for England's strategic road network (SRN), has appointed Feras Alshaker as its interim chief executive ahead of the departure of John Larkinson later this month.
Mr Alshaker, who is currently ORR's director of planning and performance, will take on the interim leadership role from 27 April. In his current post, he has senior responsibility for Britain's rail and England's SRN, including oversight of Network Rail, HS1 and National Highways.
In turn, Graham Richards, director of Transport for London analysis at ORR, will take on interim responsibility for the planning and performance directorate.
In nearly 10 years at ORR, Mr Alshaker has led major regulatory interventions affecting passengers, freight users and taxpayers.
ORR said Mr Alshaker 'will provide continuity' as ORR continues to deliver its transformation programme, including 'supporting rail reform, regulatory reform and the increased use of artificial intelligence'.
Declan Collier, chair at the ORR, said: 'I am very pleased that Feras has agreed to take on the role of interim chief executive. His experience, leadership and deep understanding of ORR will be invaluable as we continue to deliver our priorities for rail reform and navigate a period of significant change.'
Mr Alshaker said: 'I am proud to lead ORR in this interim period as we continue our transformation, support rail reform and ensure effective, proportionate regulation that delivers for passengers, freight users and taxpayers.'
John Larkinson and Feras Alshaker will now work closely together to ensure a smooth transition.
The process to appoint a permanent Chief Executive is to be led by an independent Civil Service Commissioner.
The role is expected to be advertised in early April, with interviews planned for June. Subject to the necessary government approvals, an appointment is expected to be made later this year.
