Mobico Group plc announces that Dr Michael Hetzer will be appointed as CEO of National Express GmbH and German Rail, in July 2024.

Michael will bring more than 20 years’ experience of running rail businesses in Europe and around the world, Asia and South America to bear on the role. Most recently, Michael has been CEO and COO for Deutsche Bahn International Operations, leading businesses in India, Uruguay, the United Arab Emirates and Canada.

National Express GmbH operates rail services on seven routes in North Rhine-Westphalia. With a total of seven lines, the business connects the major cities of North Rhine-Westphalia quickly, conveniently and reliably. It operates five Rhein-Ruhr Express routes as well as the RE7 and RB48.

Michael will report to Alex Jensen, CEO UK, Ireland and Germany Division of National Express, part of Mobico Group.

Michael holds a PhD in Physics and has many years of experience in stakeholder management, both within the Deutsche Bahn Group and externally with customers, suppliers, joint venture partners and government decision-makers.

Alex Jensen, CEO National Express UK, Ireland and Germany said: “Michael brings deep rail industry technical expertise. I look forward to working with him as we continue to create the right investment and operating framework with our stakeholders and partners.”

Dr Michael Hetzer, CEO designate, National Express GmbH, said: “I am looking forward to joining Mobico Group, meeting the team and in particular, connecting with our thousands of colleagues who deliver a high-quality service every day. I am eager to drive National Express’ efforts in the ongoing mobility transition, focusing on providing safe, sustainable, and reliable transportation service and customer experience across the rail services in North Rhine-Westphalia.”

ENDS

About Mobico Group
Mobico Group is a leading, international shared mobility provider with bus, coach and rail services in the UK, North America, continental Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

About National Express GmbH

National Express Germany operates rail services on seven routes in North Rhine-Westphalia, with revenue of £260m in 2023.