Transport for London (TfL) has named Gareth Powell, currently director of public transport & tfl strategy, as managing director, surface transport.

Gareth Powell, managing director surface transport, TfL

He replaces Leon Daniels – who leaves after nearly seven years in the role – and is credited with having driven significant improvements at TfL and helped to further modernise the organisation in his current position.

Powell also previously held a number of roles in group business planning and performance at project management consultancy Atkins before moving to co-lead the re-organisation of many parts of TfL.

London’s Transport Commissioner, Mike Brown, said of Powell’s appointment: “He will bring great drive, energy and experience to the vital work of delivering the Mayor’s Transport Strategy and making London a safer, greener, fairer and more accessible place.”

Commenting on the departure of Leon Daniels, Brown added: “Leon has made a massive contribution to TfL and London. Our progress under his leadership has been considerable and I am very grateful to him both personally and professionally for all his invaluable hard work and support.”