Freight Rail, Workforce, Certification & Training

More changes at the top for Aurizon

Aurizon double-stacked intermodal train. Photo: Aurizon

Aurizon boss Andrew Harding has announced an organisational restructure at the Queensland-based rail operator.

Harding, who was appointed as chief executive last year, announced late last week the company would move to a business unit model with leaders in coal, diversified bulk freight and iron ore, and intermodal and network.

He said the previous functional model of the executive had served Aurizon well coming out of government ownership and had allowed significant cost savings through the elimination of duplication of processes.

“However,” Harding explained, “the time is now right to harness those improvements and move to a business unit model to drive our transformation efforts with greater efficiencies, improved customer service and real, sustainable productivity improvements.

“It will provide greater accountability with each business unit being responsible for both operational and financial performance rather than the current model where it is shared across multiple functions.”

The new structure will be in place by July 1.

Harding also announced the appointment of newcomer Tina Thomas as Aurizon’s executive vice president of HR, as well as the resignation of executive vice president for customer and strategy Mauro Neves.

Neves is said to be leaving to pursue a senior leadership role overseas in the resource sector.

Harding thanked Neves for his service.

Coal customer and strategy vice president Ed McKeiver will act in Neves’ role for the time being.

“[McKeiver] will ensure a seamless transition for the Customer & Strategy team and our customers,” Harding said.

“During the next few months as we move towards the new organisational structure I will announce the make-up of my senior management team and who will lead the various business units and corporate support functions from 1 July.”