The people behind the wheel: Mike Bagshaw’s story, MTR Elizabeth line

Can you tell us about your role at MTR Elizabeth line?

As Managing Director (MD), I am responsible for the operation of London’s flagship railway, the Elizabeth line – working with Transport for London (TfL), London Underground (LU), Network Rail and other organisations. My day-to-day focus is to work with colleagues across all departments to ensure that we are delivering and meeting our performance objectives.

Prior to becoming MD, I led the planning of train services through the staged opening plan and the performance strategy for the Elizabeth line.

What inspired you to seek a career in the transport industry?

I have had an interest in transport for as long as I can remember. While I was in school, I was lucky enough to find a frontline role at my local station (Reading). That was close to 35 years ago now, and I’ve never looked back.

Have you experienced any challenges in your role and, if yes, how have you overcome them?

At the time that I was appointed, I was responsible for leading MTR Elizabeth line through the final part of the staged opening plan. This included a further timetable enhancement in May 2023, reducing journey times and bringing the frequency up to 24 trains per hour (tph) through central London.

We had many challenges along the way, the train and signalling software, being one example. Fortunately, I work with a team of collaborative, driven and determined people and, together, we have worked hard to overcome this and other setbacks as we continue transitioning to a high-performing, business-as-usual railway. 

Has a career in transport changed your perception of the industry as a whole?

The transport industry has changed significantly and improved in many ways. The rail industry, particularly, carries more people and is more accessible – making it relevant to a greater number of people. It also has a more diverse workforce, but we still have a long way to go to achieve its full potential. We need to get better at the basics of running trains on time, looking after our customers and embracing technology to achieve further growth, efficiency and value.

Credit: MTR Elizabeth line

What would be the top three highlights of your career in the industry to date?

My top three highlights from my career includes:

1. The MTR Elizabeth line – standing at Paddington station as the gates for the Elizabeth line first opened to the public in May 2022. Watching passengers come down the escalators and travelling with them on the first train is something I will never forget, especially as Crossrail had been this aspirational project talked about from the beginning of my railway career, even before construction finally began
2. Arriva Train Wales – working with the Welsh Government to deliver a faster premier service, with quicker journeys and high-quality catering to better connect North and South Wales
3. Chiltern Railways – being part of the team that developed the line between London Marylebone and Birmingham Snow Hill to deliver faster and more frequent services and value fares, which attracted new passengers and revenue to the industry.

What key pieces of advice would you give to someone who is interested in a career in transport?

Transportation is such a fundamental part of society, and there is plenty of scope for a rewarding career that plays a direct part in people’s lives. As well as a greater appreciation of the amount of work that goes into keeping cities and wider communities moving, working within the industry comes with a lot of opportunity, reward and knowledge.

In the future, what do you hope to see become more commonplace in the transport industry workforce?

I would like to see a greater reflection of the communities that we serve and engaged workforces embracing the opportunities that are presented by technology – to drive our industry forward and meet its full potential.