Transport for London Commissioner Andy Byford is to leave the organisation at the end of October to resume life in the United States.
Mr Byford became Commissioner in June 2020. TfL says that on joining he set out two key priorities – opening the Elizabeth Line and securing a long-term funding agreement with Government. With the Elizabeth Line having opened on 24 May and the next stage confirmed for 6 November, along with the recent agreement with Government for funding for TfL until 2024, TfL says these two priorities have been delivered. The organisation also says Mr Byford has overseen the creation of ‘a new, more efficient organisational structure’ and the introduction of a new TfL vision and set of values. When Mr Byford leaves TfL he will conclude a 33-year transport career spanning three continents.
Upon his departure, Chief Operating Officer Andy Lord will take on the role of Commissioner on an interim basis. Mr Lord joined TfL as MD of London Underground in November 2019 and became Chief Operating Officer earlier this year, having spent nearly 30 years in the commercial aviation sector. TfL says arrangements for a new Chief Operating Officer will be confirmed in due course.
Gareth Powell, who had been made Deputy Commissioner under the restructure of TfL’s senior team led by Mr Byford, has left TfL to become MD of London Stansted Airport.
