interviewed by CBW in March 2012
Alan Eatwell, MD of Go-Ahead subsidiary Metrobus, is to retire next year after a 44-year bus career.
Alan took on the MD role at Metrobus in 2001. He joined the industry in 1969 as a fitter’s boy at the Carlyle Works of the Birmingham and Midland Motor Omnibus Company (Midland Red). In 1974 he joined NBC’s senior management training scheme.
In 1987, there was the chance for Alan and a group of colleagues including Roger French to bid for the Brighton operations of Southdown, a company Alan had joined in 1978. He ultimately progressed to Assistant Chief Engineer.
In 1993 Go-Ahead acquired Brighton and Hove and Alan has since held roles including Group Engineering Director.
Alan said: “I’ve enjoyed a fantastic career with many proud moments. I have always aspired to achieve excellence in engineering and service quality. In my 20th year with Go-Ahead I can look back on the opportunities I’ve had to work with a fantastic team of people.”
David Brown, Group CEO for Go-Ahead, said: “Alan has played a crucial role in turning Metrobus into the huge success story it is today, overseeing growth both in the regulated London market and in the deregulated operations in and around Crawley.
“Alan has inspired his team to deliver an award-winning service, with the company achieving a 90% passenger satisfaction rate. Alan’s extensive knowledge and experience will be missed.”
Alan will retire at the end of June next year.
