NFPBS News

High Flier on the Rails

The Railway Industry Association (RIA) – which represents UK-based suppliers to the world’s railways – has appointed a new Chief Executive, Darren Caplan. Caplan comes to RIA from the Airport Operators Association, where he has been Chief Executive for the last six years, and will commence his new role early in the New Year. He takes over from Interim Chief Executive David Tonkin, who has led RIA since former RIA Director General Jeremy Candfield announced his retirement in the summer. RIA Chairman Gordon Wakeford, said “we are delighted to welcome Darren Caplan to RIA, as our new Chief Executive. Darren comes with an excellent track record of successfully running a transport trade association, campaigning for sectoral growth, enhancing its performance, and delivering improved member satisfaction scores every year. The RIA team and members look forward to having Darren on board as we embark on the next stage of the association’s development.” RIA Chief Executive designate Darren Caplan, said “I’m tremendously excited to be joining RIA at this key time, when the railway industry is going through such a major modernisation programme: providing huge opportunities for RIA’s innovative supplier members. RIA is a fantastic trade association with a strong heritage, and I am looking forward to working with the RIA team to build on its many achievements, and champion the rail supply industry in the months and years ahead.”