Derry man Gerard Carlin appointed Translink’s new Group Chief Executive

Mr. Carlin, currently Director of Networks and Innovation for SONI, the electricity transmission system operator, takes over from the outgoing CEO Chris Conway in July.

An engineer by background, Gerard has 20 years of experience in infrastructure, including the rail, water and oil and gas Industries.

He has held leadership roles at London Underground, Crossrail and Transport for London.

After joining Northern Ireland Water in 2021 he worked as Head of Transformation.

In 2018, he was part of the leadership team brought in to recover the Crossrail project, and as Programme Transition Director was responsible for the handover of the Elizabeth Line in London.

He will take up the post on July 1, 2026.

Mr. Conway previously announced his decision to leave the role in 2026 and will stay until the end of June 2026 to ensure a smooth and effective transition.

He has been Group Chief Executive since 2015, having led the organisation through major transformation including most recently the opening of Belfast Grand Central Station, Ireland’s largest integrated transport hub.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins welcoming the appointment said: “Public transport is an essential way of travelling for many across our communities. The development of facilities and services has supported growth in demand and an increase in passenger numbers.

"Gerard brings a wealth of experience from his work in public transport previously and I congratulate him on his appointment as Chief Executive of Translink. We look forward to working with him closely in this role and I wish him every success as he takes up this important position.”