New CFO appointed at HS1

HS1 Ltd, the company operating the UK's only high-speed and international railway line, announced today the appointment of Virginie Merle as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Merle will assume the role in September 2024, succeeding Claire Howling who will transition to a new Finance Director position within HS1.

This appointment comes as HS1 prepares for a surge in international rail travel from the UK. The company is also planning enhancements to meet long-term capacity needs at St. Pancras International station. The HS1 line, connecting London to the Channel Tunnel, could have the potential to handle 50% more cross-Channel services, aiming to unlock significant economic and environmental benefits.

Merle, brings over 20 years of experience in finance, primarily within the transport sector.  She has held senior positions at French giants Keolis and Transdev, alongside serving on boards in the UK rail industry, including Govia Thameslink Railway, Nottingham Trams, KeolisAmey Metrolink, and KeolisAmey Docklands. Her experience encompasses leading teams across finance, procurement, legal, compliance, cybersecurity, IT, and stakeholder management.

HS1 holds the government concession to operate the high-speed line between St. Pancras International and the Channel Tunnel.

"We are delighted to welcome Virginie as HS1's new CFO," said Robert Sinclair, CEO of HS1 Ltd. "Her extensive experience leading finance teams in the transport sector makes her perfectly suited to propel HS1's growth during this exciting time as more people choose rail travel to Europe. We also extend our sincere thanks to Claire Howling for her outstanding work as interim CFO. Claire will continue her invaluable contributions in her new role as Finance Director."

Virginie Merle, incoming CFO of HS1 Ltd, expressed her enthusiasm: "I am honoured to be appointed HS1's new CFO and excited to be part of the company's high-speed rail growth journey. I look forward to collaborating with the highly professional and motivated team at HS1, stakeholders, and colleagues to build upon the company's remarkable success and unlock its full economic and environmental potential."