Govia announced on 1 October 2007 that Steve Banaghan will be Managing Director of London Midland, the company that takes over the new West Midlands rail franchise from 11 November.

Steve has been Managing Director of Central Trains since February 2005, leading the company through an impressive period of growth and improvement. He brings a wealth of experience to his new role, gained after 29 years in the rail industry.

Keith Ludeman, Group Chief Executive of Go-Ahead and Chairman of Govia said: “We are delighted that Steve will lead the creation of the new London Midland business for us.  We are very impressed by his achievements at Central Trains and confident that he has the right combination of experience, drive and professional expertise needed to deliver our ambitious plans for the West Midlands franchise.”