MD Of EMR Leaves Role With Immediate Effect
Written by HFM News on 27th July 2026
The Managing Director of East Midlands Railway has left his role with immediate effect, as the operator faces continued pressure over service reliability and customer concerns.
Transport UK Group confirmed Will Rogers’ departure today, with Neil Grabham appointed as interim Managing Director of EMR.
Mr Rogers joined EMR in January 2020, shortly before the Covid pandemic, and led the company through lockdowns, fleet changes and major transformation projects including the retirement of High Speed Trains, the introduction of EMR Connect services, fleet refurbishment and the launch of Aurora trains.
His departure comes at a challenging time for the operator, with passengers continuing to report concerns over delays, cancellations and reliability.
Services are running to a reduced timetable because faults and technical problems with EMR’s newer and older trains have left the operator short of available rolling stock.
EMR has also faced major disruption following the fatal collision involving two trains near Bedford South, which killed a driver and left more than 160 people injured.
Managing Director Will Rogers had been involved in the response to the incident.
East Midlands Railway Managing Director Will Rogers has left his role with immediate effect
Transport UK Chief Executive Dominic Booth said: “Will stepped in to lead EMR shortly after we first secured the contract. He has been instrumental in delivering exceptional service to our customers and has embodied the Transport UK delivery-first mentality.
“In recent weeks, Will has also given his all in responding to the tragic incident at Bedford South. I would like to thank Will for all his efforts and wish him the best in the future.”
Mr Rogers said: “It has been a privilege to lead EMR since 2020 and to support our teams through a period of significant change.
“I am sad to say goodbye to a business and to colleagues who have meant so much to me. I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside such talented, committed and caring people.”
He added that it was the right time to step back and spend more time with his family.
Mr Grabham returns to EMR after previously holding the role of Customer Services Director. For the past three years, he has been Managing Director of Merseyrail, which has consistently ranked highly for train performance and customer satisfaction.
He said: “I am genuinely pleased to be returning to EMR on an interim basis and to have the opportunity to work alongside colleagues once again.
“EMR has always held a special place for me, and I know first-hand the dedication, professionalism and commitment that exists across the business.”
