Go-Ahead Norway appoints new Managing Director with extensive railway experience
The Go-Ahead Group has appointed Emil Eike as Managing Director of the group’s Norwegian rail business, which operates long-distance and commuter rail routes in the south of the country.
Emil has more than 30 years of experience as a manager from the Armed Forces, the public transport and mobility industry. His track record includes 12 years at NSB, the Norwegian state-owned railway company.
He has also worked as a consultant advising transport companies on strategy, and he is Chairman of Bybanen, the light rail network in Bergen.
Magnus Hedin, CEO of Go-Ahead Nordic, said: “Emil combines extensive experience from the railway sector with a focus on innovation and clear leadership. We are in an exciting period where we are working actively to further develop our passenger rail services. In Emil, we have found a skilled leader who can take that development further.”
Go-Ahead operates three lines in Norway – the Jæren line and the Sørlandet and Arendal routes. Services are a mixture of suburban and long-distance services between Oslo and Stavanger, including a sleeper train.
Go-Ahead employs 300 people in Norway and began operations in December 2019. The company’s operating contract with the Norwegian Rail Directorate runs to December 2027, with the option of a two-year extension to 2029.
Emil Eike said: “Trains are a key part of the overall mobility system in Norway and an important contributor to a sustainable society. Together with the skilled and dedicated employees at Go-Ahead, I am really looking forward to being part of this important social mission," says Emil. "Go-Ahead was also the winner of the first traffic package in Norway, and I have a great appreciation of courageous and innovative organisations."
Emil will take on the role on May 1st. Magnus Hedin has been filling the position of Managing Director on an interim basis, remains Chair of the Board of Go-Ahead Norwegian rail company.