Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has made a key appointment as work continues to deliver the Bee Network – the city-region’s vision for an integrated, London-style public transport and active travel system.
Steve Warrener has been confirmed as TfGM’s permanent Managing Director after taking the position on an interim basis in January this year.
As Managing Director, Steve is responsible for the day to day running of an organisation that from next year will have an annual expenditure of around £1 billion.
Steve, who joined TfGM in 2007, has previously worked in senior finance roles including at Manchester Airport, and KPMG and was formerly Finance and Corporate Services Director at TfGM.
During his time at TfGM Steve has overseen the launch of the Bee Network, as Greater Manchester made history by being the first area to bring buses under local control, as well as the delivery of a number of key projects that have transformed public transport in Greater Manchester, including:
A capital programme of more than £2bn to make Metrolink the largest light rail network in the country, with new lines to Manchester Airport, East Didsbury, Ashton, Oldham, Rochdale, MediaCity and the Trafford Centre
The Leigh Guided Busway
A series of new and upgraded bus stations and interchanges, including a brand-new, award-winning site in the heart of Stockport town centre
Major investment in active travel, with more than 120km of new, safe and accessible walking, wheeling and cycling routes delivered across the city-region
Matt Bull will replace Steve as Finance and Corporate Services Director and joins TfGM’s Executive Leadership Team, having previously held the role of Deputy Finance Director.
Matt joined TfGM in 2022 having previously held senior finance roles at PricewaterhouseCoopers and The World Bank.
The Managing Director role is part of a new leadership structure supporting Caroline Simpson, who this summer was appointed group Chief Executive for Greater Manchester Combined Authority, Transport for Greater Manchester and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
Commenting on Steve’s appointment, Caroline, said: “Steve is part of the fabric of TfGM and I am delighted at his permanent appointment as Managing Director.
“The role is absolutely key and Steve’s experience will be invaluable as the Bee Network continues to develop, with the completion of bus franchising in January and plans to integrate eight rail lines by 2028.
“The position could not be in more capable hands and I have no doubt TfGM and the Bee Network will go from strength to strength with Steve in this role.”
Steve – who is also the current chair of the Urban Transport Group – is a Chartered Accountant, holds a BA Hons in Modern Languages from Liverpool University and is a fluent French speaker.
On his appointment, he said: “I am proud to have been permanently appointed as Managing Director at TfGM.
“While I have played a part in many milestones and achievements during my time here, there is no more exciting time than now.
“The continuing delivery of the Bee Network across our city region is playing a hugely important role in opening opportunity for everyone and in underpinning and driving economic growth.
“It is a bold, trailblazing vision and one I am committed to helping Greater Manchester realise.
“By creating a more joined-up, accessible, cheaper and reliable public transport and active travel system we are making it easier for everyone that lives here to access jobs, education, leisure and vital public services.”
