NWBLT bolsters membership levels with two key appointments
Beleaguered train company, TransPennine Express, is one of two new members of the North West Business Leadership Team (NWBLT).
The train operator and bottle manufacturer, Encirc, are the latest member representatives from major North West businesses.
Chris Jackson, the new NWBLT member for TransPennine Express, became Managing Director in May 2023. Chris joined the railway industry in 2001, working in a number of front line operational roles before progressing to middle and senior leadership positions.
He has experience in project and major flagship station management along with extensive senior operational leadership experience of traincrew, network and electrical control centres.
As Regional Director for the North West at Northern for five years, Chris led a team of more than 2,400 people responsible for customer experience, safety, traincrew leadership, operational strategy and stakeholder relationships up to the most senior levels.
The operator has been at the sharp end of criticism over the past few months for its poor levels of service and record of cancellations and delays across the region’s rail network.
Sean Murphy, following taking up the position of managing director in January 2024 has become the member representative for Encirc.
Sean has been with Encirc since 2004 joining as financial controller following six years in Coca-Cola Bottlers and previously PwC.
He was appointed finance director in 2006 and has supported Adrian Curry in driving significant growth in the business in the subsequent years including the start-up of the Elton site in both glass and beverages, the redesign of the Derrylin glass facility, 360 strategic supply chain development, the inclusion of Vidrala Italia under the Encirc umbrella and, more recently, the addition of The Park to the Encirc portfolio.
NWBLT chair, Simone Peppi, said: “Each bring a wealth of experience, a commitment to the North West and the values of the NWBLT.
“Both Encirc and TransPennine represent businesses that underpin the success of our region both in terms of productivity and sustainability – key areas of focus for the NWBLT. We welcome each of them and look forward to working with them over the coming year.”
Chris Jackson said: “It is great to be able to return to the NWBLT as representative of TransPennine Express. Having previously been involved with the team in a different role, I understand the value that being part of the NWBLT brings, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the group over the coming years.”
Sean Murphy said: “I look forward to working with the other NWBLT members – great leaders who are committed to responsible business and supporting the economic growth and prosperity of the region. Encirc and my own values reflect those of the NWBLT and am delighted to be joining.”
