A former British Airways chief is to join Transport for London (TfL) as its new managing director of the Underground, taking over from the incumbent Nigel Holness.

Andy Lord worked at BA for 25 years before progressing to the role as director of operations from 2008 to 2015. He also held the role of executive vice president for Menzies Aviation for the European, Middle East, Africa and India (EMEAI) market.

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He will join TfL on 4 November this year.

Until his appointment, TfL’s managing director of customers, communication and technology, Vernon Everitt will act as interim London Underground managing director.

Everitt will continue to take home the £244,000 base salary he receives from his communications role but will be given an allowance for the three and half months that he is acting Underground managing director.

Last year Everitt earned just over £300,000, which includes his base salary and £57,875 in performance-related pay.

Lord will receive a base salary of £285,000.

Holness, the current Underground managing director, will leave TfL to take up his role as chief executive for Metro Trains Sydney.

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TfL boss Mike Brown said: “I am delighted that Andy has agreed to become the new managing director for London Underground. He brings more than 30 years of experience from the aviation industry, with a heavy focus on engineering, people leadership and customer service and a wealth of experience in delivering safe and reliable transport services.

“I am sure his fresh viewpoint and knowledge will help us continue to deliver reliable and improved services for our customers.”