Rail services giant QR National has announced the appointment of two globally-significant executives from leading North American railways to the company’s senior management team.

 

Mr Mike Franczak has been appointed to the role of Executive Vice President Operations and Mr Alex Kummant as Executive Vice President Strategy, with both roles reporting to Managing Director & CEO Lance Hockridge.

 

“After a comprehensive global search, we are delighted to announce the appointment of executives of the calibre of Mike and Alex to the QR National senior management team,” said Lance Hockridge.

 

“Mike and Alex have extensive global experience in high-performing North American railroads and major industrial enterprises, which will bring new capability and perspective to the Company as we enter our next period of growth.

 

“These appointments also underscore our determination to put in place outstanding management capability to execute on the changes required for the Company, now and into the future.”

 

Mr Franczak joins the QR National team following 25 years with Canada’s second largest railroad operator, Canadian Pacific.

 

Mr Kummant has more than 25 years’ experience in the North American industrial sector, including senior roles with US railways. He was Chief Executive Officer at passenger business Amtrak and Vice President in several roles at Union Pacific, the world’s largest freight railroad.

 

Mr Kummant will lead the newly-created Strategy function, which has been split from the formerly combined Strategy and Business Development function led by Ken Lewsey.