Fresh face at the top represents new chapter for 156-old organisation, says minister
Queensland Rail has unveiled its new chief executive officer (CEO) as Kat Stapleton, who has been serving as the organisation's chief financial officer since 2019.
Transport Minister Mark Bailey made the announcement, confirming that Stapleton has been endorsed as the rail operator's incoming CEO.
"Investment in rail is booming as our population surges and we prepare for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which is why Kat's wealth of experience, her knowledge of Queensland Rail, and her customer-centric focus will be welcomed," said Bailey in a statement.
"This appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the 156-year-old organisation, and I look forward to working with Kat to continue Queensland Rail's important work to connect communities."
David Marchant, Queensland Rail board chair, also welcomed Stapleton in her new role, adding that he looks forward to working with her.
"On behalf of the Board, I welcome Kat to the role and look forward to working together to deliver on Queensland Rail's strategic priorities," he said.
According to the announcement, Stapleton will commence as the new CEO "effective immediately." She fills in the role vacated by former CEO Nick Easy, who stepped down in 2021.
Easy stepped down from the role of Queensland CEO citing that he wants to be closer to his family in Melbourne.
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"It has been a pleasure working with the Queensland Government, Board, Executive Leadership Team and all the dedicated Queensland Rail staff to provide reliable and expanded services to our customers," said Easy in a previous statement.
"Queensland Rail provides such an important role in connecting communities by moving customers as part of an integrated public transport network," he added.
"I'd like to extend my thanks to the entire Queensland Rail team for working so incredibly hard day in, day out to transform Queensland Rail and ensure we deliver for our customers and stakeholders."
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Scott Riedel and Rupert Holloway, who are part of the Queensland Rail's Executive Leadership Team, temporarily took the reins while the company looked for its new CEO.
Marchant said the search for a new CEO involved a "thorough" and "rigorous" recruitment process.
Prior to this, Bailey described that they planned to make the recruitment process for the new Queensland Rail CEO "competitive and merit-based," adding that the Easy's successor will have "big shoes to fill."
Easy's term as CEO said significant milestones and achievements, according to Marchant, including the implementation of the Commission of Inquiry Recommendations, a successful Commonwealth Games, the integration of the New Generation Rollingstock to the South East Queensland network, and QR’s return to a full-service timetable.