Evolvi Rail Systems has appointed a new Managing Director, Darren Williams.

Darren will succeed Andrew Cantrell who is retiring after 17 years with the company.

Darren is joining the business from Omio Travel, a consolidator of international ground transportation, where he served as their Commercial Director in Berlin for the past two years. Previously, Darren headed-up UK and international sales at Eurostar in a career spanning nearly two decades.

Andrew commented, "I'd like to wish my colleagues at Evolvi Rail Systems every success in the future. I'm truly proud of all that we have achieved together. A huge thank you to customers, suppliers, and the industry for supporting and enabling our success".

Andrew played a pivotal role in overseeing the development and delivery of Evolvi, including the recent acquisition by Portman Travel Group in November 2023.

Evolvi is part of the Portman Travel Group and will continue to run independently from its TMC business.

"Evolvi is an exciting part of our acquisition strategy and one in which we will continue to invest and support. Darren brings a wealth of experience, from both domestic and international rail and we are pleased to be welcoming Darren to Evolvi and the wider PTG family," said Redmond Walsh, Group CEO, Portman Travel Group.

Recognising the contribution Andrew has made, Redmond added: "I would like to thank Andrew for his many years of contribution to the business and the wider rail industry. Andrew has steered the business flawlessly through significant industry change and the recent acquisition. Andrew is leaving the business in very capable hands with Darren, and on behalf of the business, I wish Andrew the very best."

Darren, who will commence his new role in August, commented:"I am extremely excited about joining the Evolvi team. It is a business with a strong track record in UK rail technology and a deep-rooted customer base. The prospect of working closely with our partners to enhance our product even more make this a hugely enticing opportunity. I can't wait to get started."

Darren will be joining Evolvi in August 2024 and will have a period of transition working alongside Andrew.