The Office of Rail and Road has confirmed John Larkinson as Chief Executive Officer, having been interim CEO for more than two years.

He was confirmed in the post long-term after a public consultation, and as is protocol for a role at this level, the appointment by the ORR Board has now been endorsed by the Prime Minister.

Larkinson is an economist by background, spending most of his career across a range of transport-related posts in consultancy and in central government, including as Director of Network Regulation & Affordability at the Strategic Rail Authority.

Joining ORR in 2005, he has been Director of Railway Markets & Economics and Director of Planning & Performance, and has been a member of the ORR Board since March 2017.

ORR Chair, Declan Collier called it a “well contested competition” and said, “I want to thank John for the excellent work he has done as interim CEO through an extended and really challenging period. We welcome the opportunity to now continue to draw on his experience and expertise as he takes on the permanent role.”

John Larkinson commented, “I thank the Board for its continued confidence in me and am delighted to be taking up the permanent role.

“I look forward to continuing to work with the rail and road industries, ensuring that the ORR delivers its role to protect the public interest.”

(Picture – ORR)