The organisation responsible for driving forward safety standards across the UK’s light rail sector has appointed a new Chair.

Sue Byrne brings a wealth of experience to the Light Rail Safety and Standards Board after spending nearly 30 years in the logistics industry where she has held a number of high-profile roles.

Having worked for a diverse range of private and public sector organisations – including Asda, Coca-Cola, Premier Foods and South Central Ambulance Service – Sue is now an independent Consultant and Interim Director specialising in business transformations.

On her appointment to the non-executive post at the LRSSB she said: “The work done by the board in bringing organisations together to create consistent best practice and safety standards is invaluable, with clear benefits for both operators and the travelling public.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge of chairing an organisation that’s already made significant steps towards improving what is already one of the safest modes of transport.”

Established last year, the LRSSB is building on the substantial work already done by a safety steering group set up by UKTram – the organisation representing the country’s light rail sector.

James Hammett, UKTram Managing Director, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Sue to the role, and her appointment is in keeping with a policy of drawing in expertise from outside the sector to provide a fresh perspective on the work being done by the organisation.

“Her broad experience complements the light rail specific expertise offered by a board of professionals from across the sector and the safety experts that make up the LRSSB team.”

An announcement on the appointment of a new LRSSB Chief Executive is expected shortly.