Katie Day takes lead role at Transport for the North

Lytham St Annes based Katie Day will become the new interim chief executive for Transport for the North (TfN).

After nearly five years leading TfN, Martin Tugwell will be stepping away from his role as chief executive to take a career break.

Transport for the North is the body coordinating strategic transport planning and
investment across the North of England.

The leadership transition comes at an important moment for the organisation as it continues to reset and renew its offer amid a rapidly changing landscape across the North.

Katie Day said: “As the region evolves, so too must the organisations that serve it.

“TfN is focused on serving our members and delivering the data, insight and technical capability needed to develop stronger investment cases and help deliver on their ambitions.

“It plays a vital role in bringing the North together around its shared strategic transport ambitions and I’m grateful for the Board’s support as interim chief executive during this critical period of change.”

Katie, who spoke at the Lancashire Business View Built Environment Conference in 2024, added: “Collaboration is central to TfN’s future and I’m committed to strengthening the partnerships that sit at the heart of our work.

“I’m working closely with our board, the North’s 11 combined authorities and the Department for Transport to shape the future of TfN and ensure we are aligned on delivering the shared transport ambitions for the North which will unlock economic growth.

“I want to wish Martin all the best for the future and I look forward to guiding the organisation into its next phase.”

Martin Tugwell said: “It’s been a privilege to serve the North, its political leaders and to work with some of the most skilled and talented professionals involved in strategic transport planning.

“I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together. TfN has a reputation for technical leadership and excellence that is richly deserved. It plays a vital role in supporting its constituent authorities and national government to make the case for investment in the North’s transport system.

“Katie brings deep experience, strong leadership and a clear commitment to its future direction.”