Queensland-based freight operator Aurizon has announced head of operations Mike Franczak will leave the company in March 2016 “by mutual agreement”.
Franczak joined Aurizon in 2013 after a long career in Canada.
“As we indicated at the time, we brought Mike in to bring our operating metrics in line with the North American Class 1 Railways,” chief executive Lance Hockridge said on Wednesday.
“He has delivered and has played a role in the ongoing success of our operational transformation.
“Our key operating metrics have improved and are trending towards and in some cases exceeding the performance of the Class 1 Railways.
“I would like to thank Mike for the work he has done. His experience has been invaluable in helping the team achieve many of the performance targets we set our company in recent years.”
Michael Carter will be appointed as acting head of operations from January 1, while Franczak will be available to assist with the transition before his departure in March.
Vice president of business development David Welch will act in the role of executive vice president strategy and business development for Carter during this time.
Hockridge said a global recruitment process would be undertaken to fill the role permanently however the bench strength of the Aurizon team was strong and there was a number of outstanding internal candidates.
“Michael [Carter] is currently the executive vice president strategy and business development and has broad experience in leadership roles over a long career in the rail industry, including freight, passenger and heavy haul rail operations.
“We have set very clear targets to the market in terms of cost outs and performance improvements.
“I will also be working closely with the teams to ensure a seamless transition and help our highly experienced and capable leadership team in Operations deliver on our targets and our next phase of reform and growth.”