Ex Virgin Australia Airlines group executive Rob Sharp has been named secretary of the New South Wales government’s primary transport agency, while public servant Peter Regan has been appointed head of Sydney Metro.
Sharp replaces Rodd Staples, who left Transport for NSW in February after being terminated without reason or notice in November.
Transport minister Andrew Constance on Friday said Sharp, who commences in his new role on April 7, would offer the agency a “wealth of experience from across multi-brand, multi-cultural environments, backed by an extremely strong record of success”.
“Mr Sharp is the perfect person to lead the agency in a new direction with his experience in performing successful business turnarounds and transformational change. He comes with a unique blend of specialist industry experience across transport, professional services and technology sectors.” he said.
“Mr Sharp’s impressive skillset is underpinned by strategic thinking, digital innovation, logistics excellence and delivering large scale, complex projects.”
READ MORE: Sydney Metro boss to depart as questions are raised over Staples’ termination
Sharp said he was honoured to be leading the Transport for NSW team.
“My passion for the transport sector is well known and I am thrilled to be confirmed as the next Transport secretary in this really exciting time delivering a multi-billion dollar infrastructure program, with a renewed focus on technology and innovation,” he said.
Meanwhile, the board of Sydney Metro has named Regan as the agency’s new chief executive. He replaces Dr Jon Lamonte, who has since been named head of Auckland’s water supplier, Watercare.
Regan previously served as Transport for NSW’s deputy secretary, infrastructure and place division, as well as deputy secretary, finance and investment division.
The senior public servant has an “outstanding” track record delivering major infrastructure projects for the public over the past decade, according to Constance.
“I have full confidence that Mr Regan will bring his wealth of experience to the operation of the Metro North West Line and the delivery of the Sydney Metro City and Southwest, Sydney Metro West and Sydney Metro — Western Sydney Airport projects,” he said.
READ MORE: Outgoing Sydney Metro boss Jon Lamonte to head NZ water utility
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